Physics Waves KU 2024
PMDC Verified Question 12 of 125
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
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
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option D: The sum of the amplitudes of the individual waves
Concept:

The Principle of Superposition is the fundamental law governing interference in linear wave systems.

Solution:

  • When two or more physical waves travel through the exact same medium simultaneously, they do not destroy or bounce off each other.


  • Instead, at the exact point where they overlap, the momentary displacement of the medium is determined simply by algebraically adding the displacements of the individual waves.


  • Therefore, the resultant amplitude is the mathematical sum of the amplitudes of the individual wave components at that specific instant in time.


Why other options are incorrect:

Waves sum up; they do not multiply (Option B/C). The resultant is only zero (Option A) during perfect destructive interference, not "always".

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