Circular Wave Equations: Pebble Dropped in a Pond

In summary: I'm not sure how you can assume that when you haven't set up the diff. equation to solve for such a problem. Note that for a drum-membrane problem, you do have bessel functions as the solution to the diff. equation with the proper boundary conditions.
  • #1
rlduncan
104
1
What are the equation(s) for circular waves such as pebble dropped in a pond.
 
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  • #2
OK, I'll bite. Bessel function of the First Kind?

Zz.
 
  • #3
Circular Wave

Yes, a Bessel function. How about a circular wave in which the wavelength is constant. I have looked at graphs of Bessel functions in a plane and they appear to decrease in amplitude and wavelength.
 
  • #4
If you look at the Bessel functions carefully you will see that the wavelength approaches a constant value as you go from the near field to the far field regions. You also infer that behavior from the asymptotic behavior of the governing differential equation (wave equation) for the Bessel functions.
 
  • #5
I am studing the equation y=sinkx/x^2 and find that the second order differential equation found for this equation is Bessel like, but not identical to Bessel functions. The first derivative term, for example, is off by a constant.
 
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  • #6
rlduncan said:
I am studing the equation y=sinkx/x^2 and find that the second order differential equation found for this equation is Bessel like, but not identical to Bessel functions. The first derivative term, for example, is off by a constant.

Are you sure it is not

[tex] y=\frac{sin^2(kx)}{(kx)^2}[/tex]

which is the Fraunhofer diffraction equation? If it is, then I don't see the connection with asking for circular water waves.

Zz.
 
  • #7
ZapperZ said:
Are you sure it is not

[tex] y=\frac{sin^2(kx)}{(kx)^2}[/tex]

which is the Fraunhofer diffraction equation? If it is, then I don't see the connection with asking for circular water waves.

Zz.

First time I've seen you use Latex!
 
  • #8
If you graph just sinx/x^2 where k=1 then you get a damped sine curve in which the wavelength is constant. I assume for ripples on a pond the wavelengths are constant and I was trying to make a connection if any.
 
  • #9
rlduncan said:
If you graph just sinx/x^2 where k=1 then you get a damped sine curve in which the wavelength is constant. I assume for ripples on a pond the wavelengths are constant and I was trying to make a connection if any.

I'm not sure how you can assume that when you haven't set up the diff. equation to solve for such a problem. Note that for a drum-membrane problem, you do have bessel functions as the solution to the diff. equation with the proper boundary conditions.

Zz.
 

1. How does a pebble dropped in a pond create circular wave equations?

When a pebble is dropped in a pond, it creates a disturbance on the surface of the water. This disturbance causes the water molecules to move in a circular pattern, creating circular waves that emanate from the point of impact. These waves can be described using mathematical equations known as circular wave equations.

2. What factors affect the circular wave equations in a pond?

The size and shape of the pond, the density and viscosity of the water, and the force with which the pebble is dropped can all affect the circular wave equations. Additionally, any obstacles or reflections in the pond can also alter the equations.

3. How do circular wave equations relate to the study of fluid dynamics?

Circular wave equations are a fundamental part of fluid dynamics, which is the study of how fluids, such as water, behave and interact with their environment. These equations help us understand and predict the motion and behavior of fluids, which has many practical applications in fields such as engineering and meteorology.

4. Can circular wave equations be used to model other types of waves besides those in a pond?

Yes, circular wave equations can be used to model a variety of different types of waves, including sound waves, electromagnetic waves, and seismic waves. These equations can also be applied to other fluid systems, such as air or gas, to study their behavior and interactions.

5. What is the significance of studying circular wave equations in science?

Studying circular wave equations allows us to better understand the behavior of fluids and how they interact with their surroundings. This knowledge has many practical applications, from designing structures that can withstand waves to predicting the behavior of natural phenomena like ocean currents and weather patterns. Additionally, studying these equations can also lead to advancements in fields such as acoustics and optics.

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