Is Total Energy Different from Energy Density for a 1D Standing Wave?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the distinction between total energy and energy density for a one-dimensional standing wave in a confined space. The participant successfully calculated energy density using the formula h = ρ * (AΩ/2)², where A is the amplitude and ρ is the density. However, confusion arises regarding the calculation of total energy, specifically whether to multiply by the total volume (8 m³) or just the length (2 m) due to the wave's unidirectional nature. The conclusion emphasizes that while energy density is expressed in J/m³, total energy must be derived by integrating over the appropriate dimensions.

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  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically standing waves.
  • Familiarity with energy density concepts in physics.
  • Knowledge of integration in one-dimensional contexts.
  • Basic understanding of units in physics, particularly Joules and cubic meters.
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  • Research the derivation of total energy for standing waves in confined spaces.
  • Study the implications of dimensionality on energy calculations in wave physics.
  • Learn about the relationship between energy density and total energy in different wave types.
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics and energy calculations, as well as researchers exploring the properties of standing waves in confined environments.

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Here is a detail that makes me doubt:

Homework Statement


I am given the equation for a standing wave with a dependence in 't' and 'z' only... I am told that the wave is propagating in a confined space (2*2*2) m
Q1. Calculate the energy density for n=1,2,3. I didn't have any pb with this.
Q2. Calculate the total energy for n=1,2,3. (!)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Ok, I can't find anything in my lecture notes about total energy for waves. So I went back to the definition of energy density (h) which the amount of energy per unit of volume.
Therefore if I multiply the volume by h I should get the energy (right?)
The volume here is 8 m^3 BUT since the wave in question is only in 1 direction (z) do I still have to multiply by V or only by L=2m instead (for this particular case)

Thanks for your answer(s)
 
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Well, since the integrated function has no "x" and "y" dependence, then the integration wrt them should be trivial, right ?
 
dextercioby said:
Well, since the integrated function has no "x" and "y" dependence, then the integration wrt them should be trivial, right ?

trivial... maybe not or perhaps I would not be posting...

The wave equation has no dependence in 'x' and 'y' indeed,however I am not integrated that function to get the total energy.
I got the energy density (Question 1) which is h = rho * (A*Omega/2)^2
A being the amplitude of the wave. The formula is correct according to my book (which does not mention total energy of sound waves btw)

If I check the units of 'h' I get J/m^3 therefore I should multiply by a volume to get the total energy (in J) trivial right? I guess that why I posted, I was surprised to get an energy density in J/m^3 calculated from a wave that's propagating in 1 direction only...
 

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