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Waves

Interference Patterns

Interference can be observed in all types of waves. The diagrams below represent the interference pattern due to two sets of water waves of identical frequency, produced by point sources which are oscillating in phase with each other.

Waves from source 1

 

Waves from source 2

 

Interference pattern produced by the two sets of waves.

Interference pattern resulting from oscillations of higher frequency.

 

© David Hoult 2008