What is a stationary wave?

A stationary wave forms when there are two waves of equal frequency (or wavelength) travelling in opposite directions, passing through one another. Interference occurs, with constructive interference at antinodes and destructive interference at nodes. That is to say, there is maximum displacement at antinodes and no displacement at nodes. Particles either side of the nodes are in antiphase (between two nodes in phase). Amplitude may vary between nodes. 

SP

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

An electron is traveling at a velocity of 500m/s perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field. A force of magnitude 4.32 x10^(-16) N is acting on the electron, what is the magnetic flux density of the field?


A circuit with a voltage source of 18V, has 3 resistors all connected on parallel, values at 2ohms, 6ohms and 7.5ohms. Find the total circuit resistance, and then subsequently, the total current supplied and power dissipated in the curcuit.


With the help of a suitably labelled graph, explain what is meant by resonance of a mechanical system.


An ultraviolet wave of continuous frequency reflects from a solid surface back in the direction of the transmitter. Assuming no amplitude is lost, describe and explain the behaviour of the particles in the medium between the transmitter and surface.