The sum of two sinusoidal traveling waves is a sinusoidal traveling wave only if:
A)their amplitudes are the same and they travel in the same direction
B)their amplitudes are the same and they travel in opposite directions
C)their frequencies are the same and they travel in the same direction
D)their frequencies are the same and they travel in opposite directions
E)their frequencies are the same and their amplitudes are the same

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For two sinusoidal traveling waves to sum up to another sinusoidal traveling wave, they must have the same frequency and travel in the same direction. This ensures that their phases align consistently over time, maintaining a sinusoidal form. Differences in amplitude or direction would lead to a more complex waveform.

The Sum of Two Sinusoidal Traveling Waves Is a Sinusoidal