Amplitude of a stationary wave

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    Amplitude Wave
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the characteristics of stationary waves, specifically addressing the amplitude at various points. Each point on a stationary wave exhibits a fixed amplitude, with nodes having zero amplitude and antinodes displaying maximum amplitude. This behavior is attributed to the momentary formation of stationary waves, contrasting with progressive waves where all particles maintain the same amplitude despite the wave's motion. The differences between stationary and progressive waves are also highlighted, emphasizing their distinct properties.

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  • Familiarity with amplitude and displacement concepts
  • Basic principles of wave interference
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Josielle Abdilla
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Does each point in a stationary wave change its displacement and hence it's amplitude? If yes, why is this so? However, why does the amplitude at the node and antinode remains zero and maximum respectively? Does the above have to do with the fact that all the formation of a stationary wave is momentarily? What other dissimilarities stand between a progressive and a stationary wave?
Thanks :})
 
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Each point on a stationary wave has a fixed amplitude that is different from the point next to it. Nodes have zero amplitude, antinodes have the largest amplitude than any other point.
 
What about in a progressive wave, do all particles have same amplitude?
 
However, the wave moves as the progressive waves continue to interfere, hence why shouldn't the amplitude change?
 

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