Moderate

Which one of the following change can be observed in the resultant interference wave?

Correct answer: A. Amplitude

  • A. Amplitude
  • B. Time period
  • C. Wavelength
  • D. Frequency

Explanation

(a) Amplitude: The amplitude of a wave represents the maximum displacement or height of the wave. In the case of interference, when two waves of the same frequency and traveling in the same direction meet, they can either reinforce each other or cancel each other out. This results in changes in the amplitude of the resultant interference wave. Constructive interference occurs when the waves combine and create a larger amplitude, while destructive interference occurs when the waves cancel each other out, leading to a smaller amplitude.(b) Time period: The time period of a wave is the time it takes for one complete cycle of the wave to pass a given point. In interference, the time period of the individual waves remains the same. However, the overall time period of the resultant interference wave is not affected by the interference itself.(c) Wavelength: The wavelength of a wave is the distance between two consecutive points that are in phase, such as two crests or two troughs. In interference, the wavelength of the individual waves remains the same. However, the interference can cause changes in the distribution of the wave's energy, leading to variations in the distance between consecutive crests or troughs in the resultant interference wave.(d) Frequency: The frequency of a wave represents the number of complete cycles of the wave that occur in one second. In interference, the frequency of the individual waves remains the same. However, the interference can affect the perception of frequency in the resultant interference wave due to changes in the amplitude and wavelength.So, in the case of interference, the change that can be observed in the resultant interference wave is the amplitude. The other properties, such as time period, wavelength, and frequency, remain unchanged.

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