Question

The phenomenon of interference is shown by
A.)longitudinal mechanical waves only
B.)Transverse mechanical waves only
C.)Non mechanical transverse waves only
D.)all the above types of waves

Answer 1

Hint: Interferences are formed from the resultant of two different waveforms in which the displacements from the two waveforms are either reinforced or cancelled. So, we will first understand which type of waves produce interferences. Then we will define the mechanical wave and its types which will tell us about their orientation of interference formation which will give us the required information.

Complete step by step answer:
When two different waves while travelling along the same medium meet each other, a resultant wave is formed due to either the reinforcement or cancellation of the displacements of the two waveforms. As a result of both of these waves the medium takes a different shape due to their net effect on the particles in that medium. Interferences can be produced by any types of waves like light, acoustics, gravity, matter, etc.

At a location, where the displacement of the two waves are in the same direction, constructive interference occurs and when they are opposite to each other, destructive interference occurs.

Mechanical waves are formed due to the oscillation of matter which results in transfer of energy along a medium which helps the wave to propagate over large distances. These are of generally two types; Transverse wave and longitudinal wave.
In longitudinal waves, the medium vibrates parallel to the wave direction and the interference formed by them is horizontal.

While in transverse waves, the particles of the medium vibrate in a direction perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation and thus the interferences produced by them is vertical
Hence, option d is the correct answer.

Note:
All types of waves when passes through a narrow slit, get diffracted after coming in contact with the slit edges irrespective of the orientation of the wave. This diffraction of waves takes place which causes the formation of interferences.