D'Alembert solution for the wave equation: question about the speeds

In summary, the solution for the wave equation with initial conditions of u(x,0)=f(x) and u_t(x,0)=g(x) can be found on Wikipedia as u(x,t)=(f(x+ct)+f(x-ct)+1/c*∫g(s)ds)/2. However, the assumptions made when deriving the equation for waves on a string, including the assumption that the transverse speed is small compared to c, must be taken into consideration. Additionally, the displacement from equilibrium must be small for the simple linear PDE to be a useful approximation.
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jk22
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The solution for the wave equation with initial conditions $$u(x,0)=f(x)$$ and $$u_t(x,0)=g(x)$$

Is given for example on wikipedia : $$u(x,t)=(f(x+ct)+f(x-ct)+1/c*\int_{x-ct}^{x+ct}g(s)ds)/2$$

So a vibrating string, since there is no conditions on ##g## (like ##\sqrt{1-g(x)^2/c^2}##), could move transversally at speed bigger than c, while the movement along the rope is at speed c ?
<mentor fix latex>
 
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Perhaps an analysis of the simple wave equation ##\partial^2 f/\partial t^2 = c^2 \partial^2 f/\partial x^2## indicates that, but you need to pay attention to the assumptions made when deriving the equation for waves on a string. The book "a first course in partial differential equations" by Weinberger begins with a detailed derivation, and one of the assumptions made is that the transverse speed is small compared to ##c##.

Also, there are conditions on ##g##. For one thing, the displacement from equilibrium must be very small for that simple linear PDE to be useful approximation.
 
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What is the D'Alembert solution for the wave equation?

The D'Alembert solution is a mathematical formula that describes the propagation of a wave in a medium. It is based on the wave equation, which relates the second derivative of a wave's displacement to its velocity and acceleration.

How does the D'Alembert solution account for different wave speeds?

The D'Alembert solution takes into account the different speeds at which waves travel through different media by using the medium's wave speed in its calculation. This allows for more accurate predictions of wave behavior in different environments.

What is the significance of the speeds in the D'Alembert solution?

The speeds in the D'Alembert solution represent the velocity at which a wave propagates through a medium. This is an important factor in understanding and predicting wave behavior, as different speeds can result in different wave patterns and interactions.

How is the D'Alembert solution used in practical applications?

The D'Alembert solution is used in a variety of practical applications, including the study of seismology, acoustics, and electromagnetic waves. It allows scientists to make predictions about wave behavior and to design structures and devices that can withstand or utilize wave phenomena.

Are there any limitations to the D'Alembert solution for the wave equation?

While the D'Alembert solution is a powerful tool for understanding and predicting wave behavior, it does have its limitations. It assumes that the medium through which the wave is traveling is homogeneous and isotropic, which may not always be the case in real-world scenarios.

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