How to theoretically derive the sideband frequency values?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the theoretical derivation of sideband frequency values when combining two signals, particularly in the context of amplitude modulation (AM) and the beat phenomenon. Participants explore the mathematical relationships and processes involved in generating sidebands from carrier and message waves.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants present the mathematical expression for the resultant signal when combining two frequencies, noting that sidebands appear as (w1-w2) and (w1+w2) when w1 is much greater than w2.
  • Others clarify that the creation of sidebands typically involves non-linear processes such as modulation or mixing, which are fundamentally different from simple addition of signals.
  • A participant expresses a desire to derive sideband frequencies using trigonometric relations similar to those used for beat frequencies, referencing previous discussions for context.
  • There is a suggestion that summing two sinusoidal expressions does not inherently produce sidebands, indicating a misunderstanding of the underlying processes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the method to derive sideband frequencies, with some emphasizing the need for non-linear processes while others seek to apply simpler trigonometric relations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct approach to derive sideband frequencies.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made about the nature of signal combination (addition vs. multiplication) and the specific conditions under which sidebands are generated. The mathematical steps and definitions involved in the derivation are not fully resolved.

bksree
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Hi
If 2 signals of frequencies y1 = A cos ##\omega_1## t and y2 = A cos ##\omega_2## t are combined the resultant signal is given by y = y1 + y2
y = 2A cos (w1-w2)t/2 cos (w1+w2)t/2
If w1~w2 then one can plot the beat phenomenon from this equation.

But if w1 >> w2 as in the case of a carrier wave and a message wave. Then how can one get the sideband frequencies (w1-w2) and (w1+w2) from this ?

TIA
 
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bksree said:
Hi
If 2 signals of frequencies y1 = A cos ##\omega_1## t and y2 = A cos ##\omega_2## t are combined the resultant signal is given by y = y1 + y2
y = 2A cos (w1-w2)t/2 cos (w1+w2)t/2
If w1~w2 then one can plot the beat phenomenon from this equation.

But if w1 >> w2 as in the case of a carrier wave and a message wave. Then how can one get the sideband frequencies (w1-w2) and (w1+w2) from this ?

TIA
There is a difference between adding and multiplying two sinusoids. Which one are you asking about?

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/trid.html
246665
 
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Sidebands are created with modulators and mixers which must be non-linear processes. The dominant operation is multiplication not addition. This is typically the second order term in a Taylor's expansion of the non-linear function, since higher order terms are smaller (i.e. less efficient). Addition does not create sum and difference frequencies.

Edit: Modulators are too broad of a category for this effect . Some modulators won't create sidebands, some will. Really it's mixers that do this.
 
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Hi
Thanks for your response.

I want to derive the relation to show the side band frequencies just like that obtained for the beat frequencies. And I want to do that using the simple trig relations you've shown.

I went through some oder posts and saw this (https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/sidebands-in-am-transmission.668449/) by 'sophiecentaur' where it is mentioned
But the easiest way to show how AM produces sidebands is to start with a formula which describes Amplitude Modulating a carrier wave with angular frequency ωc with a cosine modulating signal of frequency ωm does:
A =A0Cos(ωct)(1+Bcos(ωmt))

My waves are y1 = A1 cos ## \left( \omega_1 t \right)## and y2 = A2cos ## \left( \omega_2 t \right)##
Now, y1 + y2 = A1 cos ## \left( \omega_1 t \right)## + A2cos ## \left( \omega_2 t \right)##
= A1 cos(w1t) ( 1 + A2/A1 * cos(w2t)/cos(w1t) }
Now it looks like I am going off track!

Please help out

TIA
 
bksree said:
Hi
Thanks for your response.

I want to derive the relation to show the side band frequencies just like that obtained for the beat frequencies. And I want to do that using the simple trig relations you've shown.

I went through some oder posts and saw this (https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/sidebands-in-am-transmission.668449/) by 'sophiecentaur' where it is mentionedMy waves are y1 = A1 cos ## \left( \omega_1 t \right)## and y2 = A2cos ## \left( \omega_2 t \right)##
Now, y1 + y2 = A1 cos ## \left( \omega_1 t \right)## + A2cos ## \left( \omega_2 t \right)##
= A1 cos(w1t) ( 1 + A2/A1 * cos(w2t)/cos(w1t) }
Now it looks like I am going off track!
Please help out
TIA
Your equations are correct, but what are you trying to do?
Summing your two expressions y1 + y2 does NOT produce any sidebands, as you've been advised in previous posts.
 

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