Which phenomenon results in a resultant wave smaller than its components?

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Multiple Choice

Which phenomenon results in a resultant wave smaller than its components?

Explanation:
Waves superpose—their displacements add when they meet. When the two waves are opposite in phase (peaks align with troughs), they subtract from each other, reducing the overall amplitude. This cancellation is destructive interference, which can produce a resultant wave smaller than either of the original components, and even complete cancellation if the amplitudes are equal. The other descriptions describe amplification (constructive interference) or aren’t standard terms for this phenomenon.

Waves superpose—their displacements add when they meet. When the two waves are opposite in phase (peaks align with troughs), they subtract from each other, reducing the overall amplitude. This cancellation is destructive interference, which can produce a resultant wave smaller than either of the original components, and even complete cancellation if the amplitudes are equal. The other descriptions describe amplification (constructive interference) or aren’t standard terms for this phenomenon.

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