Difference between diffraction patterns and interacting waves

[RichardValdez1L]

Can someone please explain the difference between these two?

[Cindy Nguyen 1L]

Interacting waves produce diffraction patterns. Particles do not. When two waves interact, their amplitudes are combined. If two waves are in sync with each other, then the resulting amplitude is the sum of the two amplitude of the waves. If the two waves are not in sync (or in phase) with each other (for example, the amplitudes are in opposite directions), then the waves cancel out. Two waves can also be the difference of the amplitudes because waves have varying amplitudes and aren't always summed or cancelled out.

[Andrew Evans - 1G]

Cindy explained how interaction waves work, now diffraction patterns are basically what form as a result of interacting waves. Two sets of waves are being emitted from slightly different locations so they send, essentially, two different ripples. Now when measured against a straight line further away, there will be a pattern of how the two series of ripples interact and intersect with each other to produce either an exaggerated amplitude (constructive) or reduced amplitude (destructive). This pattern of handing of the constructive vs. destructive points is the diffraction pattern.

-Andrew Evans
Section 1G