How Do You Calculate Group Velocity from Phase Velocity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating group velocity from phase velocity in the context of ocean waves. The phase velocity is defined as \(v_{p} = \sqrt{\frac{g\lambda}{2\pi}}\), where \(g\) is 9.8 m/s². To find the group velocity, participants emphasize the importance of the dispersion relation \(\omega = \omega(k)\) and the differentiation of this relation to derive group velocity using \(v_{g} = \partial\omega/\partial k\). The conversation highlights the need for a clear understanding of the relationship between phase and group velocities in wave mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically phase and group velocities
  • Familiarity with dispersion relations in physics
  • Basic calculus, particularly differentiation
  • Knowledge of ocean wave dynamics and relevant equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of dispersion relations for ocean waves
  • Learn how to differentiate functions in the context of wave mechanics
  • Explore the relationship between phase velocity and group velocity in various wave types
  • Review resources on ocean wave physics, such as the Texas A&M Ocean World textbook
USEFUL FOR

Students in modern physics, particularly those studying wave mechanics, as well as educators and anyone interested in the mathematical relationships governing ocean waves.

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Homework Statement


The phase velocity of ocean waves is [tex]\sqrt{\frac{g\lambda}{2\pi}}[/tex] , where g is 9.8 m/s2. What is the group velocity?2. Homework Equations
[tex]v_{p} = \omega/k[/tex]
[tex]v_{g} = \partial\omega/\partial k[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution

So I've been trying to find omega and k from the equation in the problem statement. I've tried isolating different variables and plugging back in. I've been at this for a while now. I don't know how many google searches I've done. The only place I can find the given equation is on wiki and they don't derive it. It's for my modern physics class and the book I'm using doesn't explain any of this...

I don't want the answer. I just want a hint to get me started.
 
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Look at this place:

http://oceanworld.tamu.edu/resources/ocng_textbook/chapter16/chapter16_01.htm

ehild
 
Last edited:
What you need is the dispersion relation [itex]\omega=\omega(k)[/itex]. You need to express [itex]\omega[/itex] as a function of k, which you can do if you know the phase velocity in terms of k, not solve for particular values of the variables. Once you have that, you differentiate it to find the group velocity.
 

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