Standing waves (Interference)

Front

What is a standing wave?

Back

A standing wave is a wave that remains in a constant position, formed by the interference of two waves traveling in opposite directions.

Front

What are nodes in a standing wave?

Back

Nodes are points in a standing wave where the wave has minimum amplitude and does not move.

Front

What are anti-nodes in a standing wave?

Back

Anti-nodes are points in a standing wave where the wave has maximum amplitude and is in constant motion.

Front

What is the first harmonic?

Back

The first harmonic, or fundamental frequency, is the lowest frequency at which a system oscillates, producing one complete wave.

Front

What is the second harmonic?

Back

The second harmonic is the frequency at which a system oscillates producing two complete waves in the same length.

Front

What is constructive interference?

Back

Constructive interference occurs when two waves meet and combine to form a wave with a larger amplitude.

Front

What is destructive interference?

Back

Destructive interference occurs when two waves meet and combine to form a wave with a smaller amplitude or cancel each other out.

Front

How does wave speed relate to standing waves?

Back

In standing waves, the wave speed remains constant regardless of the harmonic produced.

Front

What is amplitude in the context of waves?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of points on a wave from its rest position.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in standing waves?

Back

The frequency and wavelength of standing waves are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.