What do we call the overlapping of two or more waves resulting in a combined wave pattern?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Restating the question and options to set the stage: What do we call the overlapping of two or more waves resulting in a combined wave pattern?
Options: a) Refraction, b) Diffraction, c) Interference, d) Wave front.
Option a: Refraction involves a change in wave direction due to a change in medium, not the superposition of waves creating a new pattern, so this is not the correct description of overlapping waves.
Option b: Diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves around obstacles or through openings, which is about wave propagation in space, not specifically the superposition of two waves forming a combined pattern.
Option c: Interference refers to the superposition principle where two or more waves overlap and combine to form a resultant wave, producing patterns like constructive and destructive interference. This directly matches the concept described in the question.
Option d: A wave front is a surface of constant phase representing the identical phase of a wave at a given time, not the process of overlapping waves; it is a geometric construct, not the act of superposing waves.
To reinforce the correct idea, think of two overlapping light waves or sound waves: their amplitudes add together at each point, leading to bright or muted regions depending on phase alignment, which is the essence of interference.
Briefly contrasting the incorrect choices helps prevent mislabeling: refraction is about medium change, diffraction is about bending through openings, and a wave front is a snapshot of phase, not the overlap mechanism itself. The phrase in the question specifically points to the interaction that produces a new combined pattern, which is the hallmark of interference.

SPH4U - Physics 12 (2025-26) - A

What do we call the overlapping of two or more waves resulting in a combined wave pattern?

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