when-studying-water-wave-interference-one-can-observe-that-destructive-interfere

Question

When studying water wave interference, one can observe that destructive interference takes place if the waves are out of phase by 1/2 wavelength or 180°. Explain why a 180° phase difference corresponds to 1/2 wavelength in the context of water waves.

Accepted Answer

Because 180° phase difference means one wave is half a wavelength ahead or behind, causing cancellation.

Answer

Because 180° represents a full wavelength and thus completes a full wave cycle.

Answer

Because 180° phase difference indicates the waves have identical frequency and amplitude.

Answer

Because 180° is the phase difference where both waves reach maximum amplitude at the same time.

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When studying water wave interference, one can observe that destructive interference takes place if the waves are out of phase by 1/2 wavelength or 180°. Explain why a 180° phase difference corresponds to 1/2 wavelength in the context of water waves.