Because a wave is a more general phenomenon than what happens on the surface of water, and waves of all kind result in interference patterns. Also, waves in the

Because a wave is a more general phenomenon than what happens on the surface of water, and waves of all kind result in interference patterns. Also, waves in the ocean certainly aren't two dimensional either, the surface "wave" just a visible manifestation of a larger system. But the polarisation of light demonstrates more quantum effects. Put two polarising filters in front of a light at 90 degrees to each other and no light gets through them both; yet add a third filter in between at 45 degrees angle to each, and now half of the light gets through all three filters! Adding extra filters can make them let more light through, not less... http://alienryderflex.com/polarizer/ http://alienryderflex.com/polarizer/