Wave Behavior
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Objective
I can predict how wave properties change during reflection, refraction, diffraction, and interference.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
Professor Dave Explains · 6:18Vetted channel
We don't generate video — this one is by Professor Dave Explains on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
When two waves combine it is called superposition, and when waves overlap it is called an interference pattern.
- 2
Constructive interference occurs when a resultant wave has greater amplitude than the individual waves, while destructive interference occurs when the resultant wave has a smaller amplitude.
- 3
When waves reach an opening they will bend around the edges, producing a phenomenon called diffraction, which is another kind of interference pattern.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
12 questions
What is superposition in the context of waves?
Describe the difference between constructive and destructive interference.
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Describe what happens to the amplitude of two identical water waves when they meet (a) in phase and (b) completely out of phase.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
Get the materials
Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format
Teacher Guide
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