Two wave pulses pass each other on a string. The one traveling toward the right has a positive amplitude, while the one traveling toward the left has an equal amplitude in the negative direction. At the point that they occupy the same region of space at the same time
A) constructive interference occurs.
B) destructive interference occurs.
C) a standing wave is produced.
D) a traveling wave is produced.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When two waves with equal amplitudes, but opposite directions, meet at a point, they undergo destructive interference. This means that the amplitudes add up to zero, resulting in a momentary cancellation of the wave at that point. Therefore, the correct option is (B) destructive interference occurs.

Two Wave Pulses Pass Each Other on a String