Wave InteractionsOr...What happens when a wave runs into stuff?

Reflection

When a wave strikes an object and bounces back.

How Does Reflection Look?

Angle of Incidence = Angle of Reflection

Reflection Example:

Echos - Reflected Sound Waves

Reflection Example:

Mirrors - Reflected Light Rays

Refraction

When a wave travels from one medium to another and bends.

Example:

When light goes from air to water it changes speed and bends. Refraction makes the straw look disconnected in the glass.

Refraction Example:

Light Through a Prism

Refraction Example:

Light through a magnifying glass

Refraction Example:Refraction is why objects in water appear closer than they really are!

Diffraction

When a wave bends because it passes a barrier or travels through a hole or slit.

Diffraction Example:

Water Waves Diffracting

Diffraction Example:

Light through Diffraction Glasses

Interference

When two or more waves run into each other, overlap, and combine.

Constructive Interference

When two or more waves combine to form a wave with a bigger amplitude.

Destructive Interference

When two or more waves combine to form a wave with a smaller amplitude.

Standing Wave

Standing waves are formed by wave interference, and appear to stand still.

Parts of a Standing WaveNode: Part of standing wave where the amplitude is zero.

Antinode: Part of standing wave where amplitude is greatest.

Resonance

When an object vibrates, and a nearby object starts vibrating.