Describing electromagnetic radiation, why is there a second sin term?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the equation for electromagnetic (EM) waves, specifically the formula E(x, t) = Eo*sin(2πx/λ)*sin(2πc/λ). The participant expresses confusion regarding the second sine term, sin(2πc/λ), and its relevance in the equation. It is clarified that c/λ represents the frequency (f) of the wave, but the necessity of the second term remains unclear. The conversation highlights the need for further resources to derive and understand this equation comprehensively.

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daselocution
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Homework Statement


Hey all,
I am working through a derivation that my professor gave me to do and I am having trouble understanding one of the formulas that he gave me, namely:

"EM waves can be described as:
E(x, t) = Eosin(2πx/λ)*sin(2πc/λ)"

The the Eo*sin(2πx/λ) term makes sense to me. I am wondering why there is a second sin term (the sin(2πc/λ)) term in the equation. I understand that c/λ = f, but in that case I still don't really understand why this term is in here. Is there a source that derives this equation anywhere? I am having trouble finding a way to understand this equation.

 
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hi daselocution! :smile:
daselocution said:
Eosin(2πx/λ)*sin(2πc/λ)

shouldn't there be a t in there somewhere? :confused:
 

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