How Does Phase Difference Affect Amplitude in Transverse Wave Interference?

Thread starter Oijl
Start date Apr 30, 2009
Tags

Interference Transverse Transverse wave Wave

AI Thread Summary

The discussion focuses on determining the amplitude of a resultant wave formed by the interference of two identical waves with a known phase difference. The approach involves writing the equations for both waves, A1 and A2, incorporating their respective phase shifts. By adding these wave equations, one can derive the amplitude of the resulting wave as a function of the original amplitude. Understanding the phase difference is crucial, as it directly influences the constructive or destructive interference observed in the resultant wave. This analysis is essential for solving problems related to wave interference in physics.

Apr 30, 2009

Oijl

Homework Statement

Having two identical waves, knowing how much they're out of phase with each other, how can I know the amplitude of the resulting wave (as a factor of the original amplitude)?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

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Apr 30, 2009

rl.bhat

Homework Helper

Write down two wavw equations, say
A1 = Ao(sinwt + phy1) and A2 = Aosin(wt + phy2)
Add them to find the amplitude of the resultant wave.

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