Question

Explain what happens when two waves encounter one another in destructive interference

Answer 1

Destructive interference occurs when waves come together in such a way that they completely cancel each other out. When two waves interfere destructively, they must have the same amplitude in opposite directions.

Answer 2

No, the resulting wave in the diagram does not demonstrate destructive interference. The resulting wave in the diagram shows a bigger wave than Wave 1 or Wave 2. If it demonstrated destructive interference, it would be a smaller wave or a horizontal line. With destructive interference, waves break down to form a smaller wave, or cancel each other out, resulting in no wave formation.