According to the principle of superimposition, when 2 or more waves overlap at a point in space, the amplitude of the resultant wave at that point is
Correct answer: D. The sum of the amplitudes of the individual waves
- A. Always zero
- B. The product of the individual wave amplitude
- C. The product of the frequencies of the individual waves
- D. The sum of the amplitudes of the individual waves
Explanation
The amplitude of the resultant wave at a point where two or more waves overlap is the algebraic sum of the individual amplitudes of those waves.
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About Waves
Progressive waves transfer energy through oscillations, with wavelength, frequency, amplitude and wave speed related by v = fλ; sound speed depends on the medium. Superposition produces interference and stationary waves in strings and organ pipes, while simple harmonic motion describes the oscillation itself and must be distinguished from wave propagation.
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