Destructive Interference with a Pebble

In summary, the problem asks when a second pebble should be dropped in a lake to produce destructive interference with the ripples produced by the first pebble, which has a frequency of .25 Hz. The equations v = fλ and v = λ/t may apply, but the solution is not clear. The question also asks how the waves of the two pebbles will "add up" to achieve destructive interference. The solution may have been overthought, but the questions provided helpful insight.
  • #1
luvinlife
2
0

Homework Statement



A pebble is dropped in a lake; and it produces ripples with a frequency of .25 Hz. When should a second pebble be dropped at the same place to produce destructive interference

Homework Equations


I'm not even sure if these apply, but they are the only formulas I know.

v=f[tex]\lambda[/tex] or v=[tex]\lambda[/tex]/t

The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea how to solve this problem
 
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  • #2
What will the second pebble's wave look like? How do these two waves "add up"?

In what way do you want them to "add up" in order to get destructive interference
 
  • #3
I get it!
wow.. definitely over thought that one.
Thank you for the thought provoking questions.
 

1. What is destructive interference with a pebble?

Destructive interference with a pebble occurs when two or more waves, such as ripples on the surface of a body of water, meet and cancel each other out, causing the waves to appear smaller or disappear altogether.

2. How does destructive interference with a pebble happen?

When two waves with equal amplitudes and opposite phases meet, they will cancel each other out, leading to destructive interference. This cancellation occurs because the peaks of one wave align with the troughs of the other wave, resulting in the two waves effectively neutralizing each other.

3. What are some examples of destructive interference with a pebble?

One example is when two stones are thrown into a pond at the same time, creating ripples that collide and cancel each other out. Another example is when two sound waves with the same frequency and opposite phases meet, causing a decrease in the overall volume of the sound.

4. Can destructive interference with a pebble be controlled?

No, destructive interference with a pebble is a natural phenomenon that occurs when two waves meet. It cannot be controlled or manipulated by an external force.

5. What is the significance of destructive interference with a pebble in science?

Destructive interference with a pebble is an important concept in the study of wave behavior and has applications in various fields such as acoustics, optics, and seismology. Understanding how waves interact and interfere with each other is crucial in many scientific fields and can help us better understand the world around us.

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