What phenomenon occurs when waves meet and combine with each other?

The phenomenon that occurs when waves meet and combine with each other is known as interference. Interference can take place between any two or more waves and is characterized by the superposition of their amplitudes. When waves are in phase, they constructively interfere, resulting in a wave with a greater amplitude. Conversely, when waves are out of phase, they can destructively interfere, leading to a reduction in amplitude or even complete cancellation in some cases.

This principle of interference is fundamental to various physical phenomena, including sound waves, light waves, and water waves. It explains how different wave sources can interact, such as the patterns seen in ripple tanks when two sets of waves overlap. Understanding interference is crucial in fields such as acoustics, optics, and radio communication, where wave behavior can have significant implications for technology and scientific understanding.