Is this mastering physics problem incorrect?

In summary, the conversation revolves around a problem involving interference of wave fronts emitted by two wave sources. The problem asks for a table with rows labeled P, Q, and R and columns labeled r1, r2, Δr, and C/D. The chart should have values for distances in multiples of λ and indicate whether the interference at that point is constructive or destructive. The final column should have C for constructive and D for destructive. After some discussion, it is determined that the values for the chart should be adjusted to account for the phase difference between the two sources.
  • #1
Second_addition
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Homework Statement

[/B]
This is the Diagram-The figure shows the circular wave fronts emitted by two wave sources.
https://session.masteringphysics.com/problemAsset/1383558/3/21.EX26.jpg
part B is the one with trouble it asks "Make a table with rows labeled P, Q, and R and columns labeled r1, r2, Δr, and C/D. Fill in the table for points P, Q, and R, giving the distances as multiples of λ and indicating, with a C or a D, whether the interference at that point is constructive or destructive."
The given wave lengths to fill in the charts blank spaces are (1/2)λ,,,λ,,,(3/2)λ,,,2λ,,,(5/2)λ,,,(3)λ and then c for constructive and D for destructive for the last column.

Homework Equations

abs(r1-r2)=Δr and for C/D and Δr that is a natural number is C all decimal numbers are Destructive //sorry don't know how to put that into more mathematical format//
3. The Attempt at a Solution [/B]
the chart should look like- Unfortunately their is no 3.5 fraction 7/2 is missing^
r1 r2 Δr D/C
P 2λ 3.5λ 1.5λ D
Q 3λ 2λ 1λ C
R 2.5λ 3.5λ 1λ C
 
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  • #2
Hello and welcome to PF!

To my eyes, the first wavefront surrounding source 1 is a full wavelength from source 1. But the first wavefront surrounding source 2 is not a full wavelength from source 2. Could it be that the two sources are not in phase?
 
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Likes Second_addition
  • #3
TSny said:
Hello and welcome to PF!

To my eyes, the first wavefront surrounding source 1 is a full wavelength from source 1. But the first wavefront surrounding source 2 is not a full wavelength from source 2. Could it be that the two sources are not in phase?
Yes your right so instead of 3.5 it would be 3 making it work thank you
 

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If you are unsure about the correctness of a problem, you can try checking the solution or asking for assistance from your instructor or peers. Additionally, if multiple attempts at solving the problem using different methods consistently give incorrect answers, it is likely that the problem is indeed incorrect.

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4. Can a mastering physics problem be partially correct?

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