Constructive interference

Definition

Constructive interference occurs when two or more waves combine to create a larger amplitude, resulting in an increase in the overall intensity of the wave.

Analogy

Imagine two friends jumping on a trampoline at the same time. When they land together, their jumps combine and make the trampoline surface higher than if they jumped individually. This is similar to how waves can add up and become stronger through constructive interference.

Related terms

Destructive interference: Destructive interference happens when two or more waves combine to create a smaller amplitude, resulting in a decrease in the overall intensity of the wave.

Superposition principle: The superposition principle states that when multiple waves overlap, the total displacement at any point is equal to the sum of displacements caused by each individual wave.

Interference pattern: An interference pattern is a pattern formed by overlapping waves that have undergone either constructive or destructive interference. It can be observed in phenomena like diffraction and double-slit experiments.