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Wave frequency and photon energy Path difference becomes phase difference Stationary waves are a superposition pattern Use a stationary pattern to measure wave speed Diffraction connects electrons with other waves Measure wavelength over several repeats of a pattern Waves4.4 Quantum physics4.5 Implementing1.1.2 Wave motion4.4.1 Superposition4.4.3 Stationary waves4.4.4 Wave–particle duality4.5.3
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Stationary waves are a superposition pattern

OCR A AS Physics · Two ideas, one explanation

Waves travelling in opposite directions can superpose to form fixed nodes and antinodes. This is a pattern of oscillation, not a wave profile travelling along the medium.

Adjacent nodes are λ/2 apart

Follow the reasoning

  1. Identify the incident and reflected waves.
  2. Find points of persistent cancellation and reinforcement.
  3. Use the node spacing to determine wavelength.
Specification outcomes (6)
  • 4.4.3(a)(i) State the principle of superposition of waves.
  • 4.4.3(b) Use graphical methods to illustrate superposition of waves.
  • 4.4.3(d) Explain constructive and destructive interference in terms of path and phase difference.
  • 4.4.4(a) Describe stationary (standing) waves using microwaves, stretched strings and air columns.
  • 4.4.4(c) Compare stationary and progressive waves.
  • 4.4.4(d) Define nodes and antinodes.
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H156 v2.0 · May 2026

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