Amplitude of a stationary wave

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    Amplitude Wave
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the characteristics of stationary waves, particularly focusing on the nature of amplitude at different points, such as nodes and antinodes, and how these characteristics compare to progressive waves. The scope includes conceptual understanding and technical explanations related to wave behavior.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether each point in a stationary wave changes its displacement and amplitude, and why nodes and antinodes exhibit zero and maximum amplitude, respectively.
  • Another participant asserts that each point on a stationary wave has a fixed amplitude that varies from point to point, with nodes having zero amplitude and antinodes having the maximum amplitude.
  • A participant inquires about the amplitude of particles in a progressive wave, suggesting a comparison with stationary waves.
  • Another participant raises a point about the movement of waves, questioning why the amplitude should not change if progressive waves continue to interfere.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of amplitude in stationary versus progressive waves, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions regarding the definitions of amplitude, nodes, and antinodes may not be explicitly stated, and the relationship between stationary and progressive waves is not fully explored.

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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