Understanding Phase Difference in 3D Waves

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the phase difference between two points in a 3D wave scenario. The wave has a speed of 346 m/s and a frequency of 13100 Hz. The initial approach using the 1D phase difference formula was deemed incorrect due to the 3D nature of the problem. Participants suggest using the distance from the origin to each point to find the correct delta for phase difference calculation. The conversation emphasizes the need to adapt the phase difference formula for three-dimensional waves.
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Homework Statement



A wave at the origin expands outwards passing the points (.01, .03, .02) and (-.01, .015, .025). This wave has a wave speed, V_w = 346 m/s and frequency = 13100 HZ.

What is the phase difference between these two points?


Homework Equations




v = (wavelength)(frequency)

Phase Difference = 2pi (delta x) / Wave length


The Attempt at a Solution



I attempted to use the following:


[(distance between points using 3D formula)/(wave length)] * 2pi = phase difference.


This was in correct. I am going to guess that it's because "Phase Difference = 2pi (delta x) / Wave length" is for a wave in one dimension. My question is how does the phase difference change in 3 dimensions? I attempted to use the surface area of a sphere but it also failed. Something is quite wrong.
 
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Use the distance from the origin... the delta you need is the difference of the second point from the origin - the distance of the first point from the origin.
 
Wonderful thanks.
 

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