Question

which type of wave interaction is shown in the diagram? wave a wave b wave a + b a. diffraction subtraction b. destructive interference c. diffraction gradient d. constructive interference

Explanation:

• Destructive interference occurs when two waves combine such that their amplitudes cancel each other out. In the diagram, wave A and wave B are out - of - phase (one has crests where the other has troughs). When they combine (wave A + B), the resulting wave has a lower amplitude (in this case, it appears to have zero amplitude as the red line is flat).
• Diffraction (options A and C) is about a wave bending around an obstacle or spreading out after passing through an opening, which is not depicted here.
• Constructive interference (option D) would occur if the waves were in - phase and the resulting wave had a larger amplitude than the individual waves.

Answer:

B. Destructive interference