Description
This application simulates the propagation of a sinusoidal wave described by $$y = A\cos( kx - \omega t - \phi_0),$$ where $k = 2\pi/\lambda$ and $\omega = 2\pi f$. In "2 waves" mode, wave 1 and wave 2 are displayed separately along with their superposition, y1 + y2.
Controls
Click any graph or Start to start/pause the animation; Shift-click or Restart resets the simulation. Switch between 1 wave and 2 waves to compare the individual waves with their superposition. The Examples menu loads preset configurations (constructive/destructive interference, standing wave, beats, and group velocity).
Physical model
The superposition of two waves with the same frequency but different phases or amplitudes is the basis for understanding constructive and destructive interference—the same principle behind phenomena such as beats, standing waves, and double-slit experiments.
Developers
Marco P. M. de Souza
References
H. Moysés Nussenzveig, Curso de Física Básica: Fluidos, Oscilações e Ondas, Calor (Blucher, 2014).