For the medium to remain undisturbed as two pulses pass the same point, they must have
equal amplitudes
opposite amplitudes
different amplitudes
both a and b
I had both a and b but im not sure.
You are correct.
To determine the correct answer, let's first understand the concept of interference in wave propagation. When two pulses pass the same point, they can interfere with each other, resulting in constructive or destructive interference.
In constructive interference, the pulses have the same amplitude and interfere constructively, leading to a larger amplitude at the point of observation. This occurs when the peaks of both pulses coincide, adding up their amplitudes.
In destructive interference, the pulses have opposite amplitudes and interfere destructively, leading to a smaller or zero amplitude at the point of observation. This occurs when the peak of one pulse coincides with the trough of the other, canceling out their amplitudes.
Now, for the medium to remain undisturbed, we need to consider how interference affects it. In this case, if we want the medium to stay undisturbed, we need the pulses to interfere destructively. This means that their amplitudes should be opposite in order to cancel each other out and keep the medium undisturbed.
Therefore, the correct answer is: opposite amplitudes.