Question:

If two electromagnetic waves with electric fields given by $$ \vec{E_1} = E_0 \sin (kx - \omega t) \hat{j} $$ and $$ \vec{E_2} = E_0 \sin (kx - \omega t + \pi) \hat{j} $$ - interfere, then the peak value of the electric field of the resultant wave is

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When two waves with equal amplitude and opposite phase (\(\pi\) phase difference) interfere, they cancel each other completely, leading to a resultant electric field of zero.
Updated On: May 5, 2026
  • \(E_0\)
  • \(\frac{E_0}{2}\)
  • \(\frac{E_0}{\sqrt{2}}\)
  • Zero
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Identify phase difference
The two waves are: \[ E_1 = E_0 \sin(kx - \omega t), \quad E_2 = E_0 \sin(kx - \omega t + \pi) \] Phase difference: \[ \Delta \phi = \pi \]
Step 2: Use interference result formula
Resultant amplitude for two waves: \[ R = 2E_0 \cos\left(\frac{\Delta \phi}{2}\right) \]
Step 3: Substitute value
\[ R = 2E_0 \cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right) = 2E_0 \times 0 = 0 \]
Step 4: Result
Since amplitude is zero, resultant electric field is zero.
Final Answer: Zero
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