Wave Interference

constructive interference -txnxz8

Constructive Interference is when a crest from one source meets a crest from another source.

deconstructive interference -s4v0vt

Deconstructive interference is when a crest and a trough meet.

Standing Wave-s19jqi

Standing waves is when the waves have the same amplitude and wavelength, the resulting pattern remains nearly stationary.

 

How do noise cancelling headphones use wave interference to eliminate unwanted sound?

Sound is a pressure wave. A noise cancellation speaker emits a sound wave with the same amplitude but with inverted phase, so that the noise cancels out.