Help with Coherent Wave Questions

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of coherence and its relation to waves, specifically in terms of their frequency, wavelength, velocity, and amplitude. It is mentioned that for beats to occur, the waves must have slightly different frequencies and the amplitude can vary. The definition of coherence is also clarified as having the same phase relationship between waves.
  • #1
Yatin
20
1
Hi guys. Was studying waves and got a bit confused. Pl help me out.

Coherent sources are those which produce waves of same frequency, wavelength and velocity. Amplitude need not necessarily be same. Am I right?

There's another doubt in my mind...

If two waves produce beats then which of the following quantities are necessarily same for both of them
Angular wave number( and thus wavelength)
Angular frequency ( and thus frequecy)
Velocity of wave
Amplitude

Please answer only if 100% sure.
 
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  • #2
For coherence, they must have the same phase relationship. At least during the coherence time.
The wavelength depends on frequency and phase velocity so it is not an independent quantity.

For beats you need to have slightly different frequencies. Amplitudes can be different but then the minims won't be zero.
 
  • #3
nasu said:
For coherence, they must have the same phase relationship.
What do you mean by same phase relationship?
Is my notion about coherent waves correct?
 
  • #4
Yatin said:
Angular wave number( and thus wavelength)
Angular frequency ( and thus frequecy)
Velocity of wave
Amplitude
So none of these have to be necessarily same for 2 waves to produce beats?
 
  • #5
Yatin said:
So none of these have to be necessarily same for 2 waves to produce beats?
You will not get beats of the two waves are of the same frequency and youdo not move the measuring position or sources; the phase relationship of the two waves stay the same at a given point so the resultant is the same amplitude.
 

Related to Help with Coherent Wave Questions

What is a coherent wave?

A coherent wave is a type of wave in which the peaks and troughs of the wave are in a fixed relationship with each other. This means that the waves are in phase and can interfere constructively, resulting in a stronger and more powerful wave.

What is the difference between coherent and incoherent waves?

The main difference between coherent and incoherent waves is the relationship between the peaks and troughs of the wave. Incoherent waves have no fixed relationship and can interfere destructively, resulting in a weaker and less stable wave.

How can coherent waves be used in technology?

Coherent waves have a variety of uses in technology, including in communication systems such as radio, television, and cell phones. They are also used in medical imaging techniques such as ultrasound and in industrial applications such as laser cutting and welding.

What are some common examples of coherent waves?

Some common examples of coherent waves include laser light, sound waves in a musical instrument, and radio waves in a broadcast antenna. All of these waves have a fixed relationship between their peaks and troughs, allowing for constructive interference.

How are the properties of coherent waves measured?

The properties of coherent waves, such as wavelength and frequency, can be measured using instruments such as an oscilloscope or a spectrometer. These instruments can also be used to analyze the interference patterns of coherent waves, providing valuable information about their characteristics.

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