Destructive Intereference Question

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In summary, destructive interference occurs when two waves that are out of phase cancel each other out. The amplitude of the incoming waves is continually summed to 0, but the waves still propagate through the interference. This allows for the interference to be recorded at different distances. If one of the waves is shifted using a reflective film, the destructive interference will no longer occur.
  • #1
Quantom
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When there is destructive interference I know that two waves that are out of phase cancel out, but what really goes on? What i mean is when there is destructive interference are the two waves that are interfereing constantly interfereing or are they both completely eliminated at the initial point of interference and no waves propogate thereafter?
 
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  • #2
It's at that point the amplitude of the incoming waves continually sum to 0. However, just when two wave interact on a string (see this video ) the wave continue propagate through the interference and afterwards.

That is why you can record the interference at a variety of distances (as long as you are far enough away for your approximations to hold): the waves continually interact destructively and constructively, but the individual waves are unchanged by this process.

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  • #3
So if two waves that are destructing and are propagating continually and then somehow one of the two waves is shifted using a reflective film, the waves then should no longer destruct, correct?
 

What is destructive interference?

Destructive interference is a phenomenon that occurs when two waves with equal amplitudes and opposite phases meet and cancel each other out, resulting in a decrease in the overall amplitude of the wave.

How does destructive interference differ from constructive interference?

Destructive interference occurs when two waves cancel each other out, while constructive interference occurs when two waves combine and result in a larger amplitude.

What are some real-life examples of destructive interference?

Some examples of destructive interference include noise-cancelling headphones, where sound waves from outside are cancelled out by waves produced by the headphones, and "dead spots" in concert venues where sound waves from different speakers cancel each other out and result in a decrease in sound intensity.

Can destructive interference be beneficial?

Yes, destructive interference can be beneficial in some cases. For example, it is used in noise-cancelling technology to reduce unwanted noise and improve sound quality. It is also used in medical imaging techniques such as ultrasound, where destructive interference helps to create clearer images.

How is destructive interference related to the concept of phase difference?

Destructive interference occurs when two waves are out of phase by 180 degrees, meaning they have opposite phases. Phase difference plays a crucial role in determining whether interference will be constructive or destructive.

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