Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
destructive interference
Noun
/dɪsˈtrʌk.tɪv ˌɪn.təˈfɪə.rəns/
Definition
Destructive interference is a phenomenon that occurs when two or more waves meet and combine to form a wave of smaller amplitude, effectively canceling each other out.
Examples
- When sound waves from two speakers are out of phase, they can create destructive interference, reducing the volume in some areas of the room.
- The bright and dark fringes observed in a double-slit experiment are a direct result of constructive and destructive interference.
- Destructive interference can occur in light waves, leading to patterns with alternating light and dark regions.
Meaning
When waves interact in such a way that they reduce or completely cancel each other’s effects, resulting in less intensity or a null point.
Synonyms
- Wave cancellation
- Phase cancellation
- Amplitude reduction
