Principle of Superposition

Steps:

• Superposition happens when waves overlap, adding their displacements to form a resultant pattern.
• This requires waves that can interfere constructively or destructively.
• Interference patterns form only if waves share compatible properties, like propagating in the same medium.
• Thus, the waves must be of the same type for meaningful superposition.

Why B is correct:

• The superposition principle states that waves of the same type (e.g., both sound or both light) combine to produce a resultant wave pattern through addition of amplitudes.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Amplitudes can differ; unequal waves still superpose to form patterns.
• C: Superposition applies to both transverse and longitudinal waves.
• D: Waves can travel in the same direction and still superpose.

Final answer: B