Wave Interference Patterns
An interactive visualization of wave interference showing constructive and destructive interference patterns. Waves combine according to the superposition principle - their amplitudes add algebraically.
Technical Implementation:
Wave Equation: Each source generates waves using the formula A·sin(2πf(t - r/v) + φ) where A is amplitude, f is frequency, r is distance, v is wave speed, and φ is phase.
Superposition: Wave amplitudes from all sources are summed at each point, creating constructive interference (bright warm colors) and destructive interference (cool colors).
Visualization: Positive amplitudes appear as warm colors (red/orange), negative as cool colors (blue), with intensity representing magnitude.
Interaction: Click sources to select/configure them. Shift+click to add new sources. Drag sources to move them around the field.
Wave lines are currently hidden.2 wave sources active.
Click sources to select • Shift+click to add new sources • Drag to move sources
Global Settings
Wave Sources
Select a wave source to configure its properties.
• Click on a source (numbered circles) to select it
• Shift+click on empty space to add a new source
• Drag sources to move them around
Interference Patterns:
Constructive Interference: When waves are in phase (peaks align), they add together creating larger amplitudes shown in warm colors (red/orange).
Destructive Interference: When waves are out of phase (peak meets trough), they cancel each other creating smaller amplitudes shown in cool colors (blue).
Phase Difference: Adjust the phase of individual sources to create different interference patterns and explore wave phenomena like standing waves.