What is the definition of phase lag and phase difference?

In summary, phase and phase lag (or phase difference) are terms used to describe the relationship between two propagating waves, such as lasers or sound waves. Phase refers to the argument of the sine function in a sinusoidal oscillation, while phase lag or phase difference is the difference in phase between two oscillations. This can be seen in real life examples, such as the phase lag created when one laser is retarded due to propagation through a glass medium. The terms can be used interchangeably, with phase lag being more commonly used to describe the phase difference between two waves. For a better understanding, there are various online resources, such as videos or articles, that explain these terms in detail.
  • #1
ajaysabarish
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what is the definition of phase lag and phase difference in waves and how are these 2 related?please explain in simple words and with real life examples.
Please explain phase,phase lag and phase difference from scratch.
 
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  • #2
The two terms can be used interchangeably. Phase lag is usually more used to describe the phase difference arising between two propagating waves like laser or sound wave. Suppose two laser are fired at the same time, in the path of one of the laser, one places a glass of certain length. A phase lag between the two lasers will arise when one of the laser is retarded because of the propagation in the glass. Nevertheless, I don't think there is that much difference in between the usage of the two terms.
 
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  • #3
blue_leaf77 said:
The two terms can be used interchangeably. Phase lag is usually more used to describe the phase difference arising between two propagating waves like laser or sound wave. Suppose two laser are fired at the same time, in the path of one of the laser, one places a glass of certain length. A phase lag between the two lasers will arise when one of the laser is retarded because of the propagation in the glass. Nevertheless, I don't think there is that much difference in between the usage of the two terms.
Sir,but what is the actual definition of phase and phase lag,without understanding it,it is very difficult to understand your answers.Atleast suggest some website or video letures which explains these 2 terms from scratch.
 
  • #4
Suppose you have a sinusoidal oscillation of the form ##y(\phi_1) = A_1\sin \phi_1##, the argument of the sine function, ##\theta## is called the phase. When now you have one more oscillation ##y(\phi_2) = A_2\sin\phi_2## and calculate the phase difference between it and the previous oscillation, it will be ##\Delta \phi = \phi_2-\phi_1##. For example see . That is just one of many youtube items which result when you type "phase difference" in its browser box.
 

1. What is the definition of phase lag?

Phase lag refers to the delay between two waves with the same frequency. It is measured in degrees and represents the difference in the starting point of the waves.

2. How is phase lag different from phase difference?

Phase difference is a general term that refers to the difference in phase between two waves. Phase lag, on the other hand, specifically refers to the delay in the starting point of the waves.

3. What causes phase lag?

Phase lag is caused by a difference in the distance traveled by two waves or a difference in the time taken for the waves to travel the same distance. This can be due to differences in the medium through which the waves are traveling.

4. How is phase lag measured?

Phase lag is measured in degrees and can be calculated by dividing the time delay between the waves by the period of the wave and multiplying by 360 degrees.

5. Why is phase lag important in science?

Phase lag is important in science because it helps us understand the behavior of waves and how they interact with each other. It is also used in various fields such as physics, engineering, and signal processing to analyze and manipulate wave patterns.

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