principle of superposition

Definitions of principle of superposition
  1. noun
    (geology) the principle that in a series of stratified sedimentary rocks the lowest stratum is the oldest
    synonyms: superposition, superposition principle
    see moresee less
    type of:
    principle, rule
    a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
  2. noun
    the displacement of any point due to the superposition of wave systems is equal to the sum of the displacements of the individual waves at that point
    “the principle of superposition is the basis of the wave theory of light”
    synonyms: Huygens' principle of superposition
    see moresee less
    type of:
    principle, rule
    a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘principle of superposition'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family