If two wave of different amplitudes superpose at a point, would each

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the superposition of two waves with different amplitudes and whether they retain their original amplitudes after interference at a point. The scope includes conceptual understanding of wave behavior and the principle of superposition.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the waves leave the point of superposition with the same amplitude they had before superposition or with equal amplitudes.
  • Another participant asserts that the principle of superposition allows waves to interfere without being harmed, suggesting that they retain their characteristics post-interference.
  • A follow-up inquiry seeks clarification on the reasoning behind the idea that waves leave 'unharmed' after superposition.
  • A subsequent response indicates that the explanation lies within the equations governing wave behavior, without providing an intuitive rationale.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of superposition, with some emphasizing the preservation of wave characteristics and others questioning the nature of amplitude after interference. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of amplitude retention.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include a lack of detailed mathematical treatment and assumptions about the nature of waves involved in the discussion.

brainyman89
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if two wave of different amplitudes superpose at a point, would each wave leave this point with the same amplitude before superposition, or will they leave the point of superposition with equal amplitudes?
 
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The beauty of superposition is that after the two waves have interfered, they leave 'unharmed'.
As a example where your second guess would be outrageous is if you have two waves one of which has zero amplitude (is it there, really? I don't know). After they interfered, there would be two waves. I don't think that's acceptable (and I'm not talking about any quantum effects here, guys!).
 


jeppetrost said:
The beauty of superposition is that after the two waves have interfered, they leave 'unharmed'.

can yo tell me the reason why they leave unharmed
 


Uhm, because they obey superposition :D
I don't think I have any kind of intuitive reason, or what you'd call it.
It's all in the equations really.
 

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