Calculating Distance Between Wave Crest and Zero Acceleration Point?

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The discussion centers on calculating the shortest horizontal distance from a wave crest to a point of zero acceleration. Participants express uncertainty about how to start the problem, with one mentioning a background in calculus but currently taking an algebra-based physics course. They suggest visualizing the problem using concepts like a swinging pendulum to understand where acceleration is maximum and zero. The conversation shifts towards the need for a relevant equation to describe the motion involved in this scenario. Overall, the focus is on clarifying the relationship between wave motion and acceleration points.
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Homework Statement



What is the shortest horizontal distance from a crest to a point of zero acceleration?

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



Dont know how to begin...
 
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Do you know any calculus?
 
Well I do...kinda. That was a couple of years ago. Except the physics course I am taking is an algebra based course...

Any other suggestions?
 
ok … forget calculus …

on a graph, what shapes are negative zero and positive acceleration? :smile:
 
dietcogekal it may help to think of something like a swinging pendulum.Where in the swing is the acceleration a maximum and where is it zero?
 
This is sounding more like simple harmonic motion, and not a wave phenomena problem.

We really should have an equation describing the motion, to work from ... what does the textbook have in the way of equations for this topic?
 

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