Simple sinusoidal wave can't convey information?

In summary, a simple periodic wave, such as a simple sinusoidal wave, cannot convey information because it continues for all time with the same amplitude and frequency. To convey information, at least two different "words" or signals are needed, similar to how "yes" and "no" convey different meanings.
  • #1
Mesmerized
54
0
Hello,

Here http://www.mathpages.com/home/kmath210/kmath210.htm it is written that "...in order to actually convey information, a signal cannot be a simple periodic wave...". I've met this statement in several other places too, this one is just for reference.

What does that mean that a simple sinusoidal periodic wave can't convey information?
 
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  • #2
How would you convey information with such a wave?
 
  • #3
A "simple sinusoidal periodic wave" in this sense continues for all time (both in the past and in the future) with the same amplitude and frequency.

That might be different from a "common sense" idea of what the word "simple" means.
 
  • #4
To convey information, you need at least two "words". One word gives no information - If your answer to every question was "yes", your answers would have no value at all, they would carry no information. A simple sine wave is like one word, it carries no information. If you had two possibilites, a sine wave or no sine wave, then you could transmit information, like "yes" or "no".
 
  • #5
thanks for the answers.
thank you Rap, that explains it clearly
 

1. What is a simple sinusoidal wave?

A simple sinusoidal wave is a type of wave that has a smooth, repetitive oscillation and can be represented by a mathematical function called a sine wave. It is a fundamental concept in physics and can be seen in many natural phenomena, such as sound and light waves.

2. How does a simple sinusoidal wave convey information?

A simple sinusoidal wave, by itself, cannot convey information. It is a pure form of energy and does not contain any variations or patterns that can be interpreted as information. However, it can be modulated or changed in some way to carry information, such as in the case of radio waves.

3. What are some examples of simple sinusoidal waves in everyday life?

Some examples of simple sinusoidal waves in everyday life include the sound waves produced by musical instruments, the light waves emitted by a candle flame, and the electromagnetic waves used for radio and television signals.

4. Can a simple sinusoidal wave be used for communication?

As mentioned earlier, a simple sinusoidal wave on its own cannot convey information. However, it can be modulated by varying its amplitude, frequency, or phase to encode information, making it a useful tool for communication. This is commonly seen in technologies like radio and television broadcasting.

5. What is the relationship between a simple sinusoidal wave and information theory?

The relationship between a simple sinusoidal wave and information theory is that a wave can be used to transmit information, but it must be modulated in some way to do so effectively. Information theory is the mathematical study of how information is encoded, transmitted, and decoded, and it provides the framework for understanding how simple sinusoidal waves can be used for communication.

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