Light waves represented by coils

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the behavior of light waves as they transition between different mediums, specifically from a less dense medium like air to a denser medium such as water. It is established that a wave with a positive amplitude reflects with a negative amplitude when moving from a lighter to a heavier medium. This principle is illustrated through the analogy of a string tied to a post and the behavior of connected springs, where a pulse reflects with opposite amplitude at the boundary of differing densities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave amplitude and reflection
  • Familiarity with concepts of medium density
  • Basic knowledge of wave mechanics
  • Experience with analogies in physics, such as springs and strings
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  • Research the principles of wave reflection in different mediums
  • Explore the mathematical representation of wave behavior at boundaries
  • Learn about the properties of waves in various materials
  • Investigate practical applications of wave reflection in optics
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Students of physics, educators teaching wave mechanics, and professionals in optics or materials science will benefit from this discussion.

phyzwiz69
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Thanks it makes a lot more sense now!
 
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The sign of the reflected wave (up or down) depends on the mediums that it travels from & to. A wave with a positive amplitude that is traveling from a medium with light density (air) to a heavier density medium (water) will reflect with a negative amplitude.

This action is analogous to a string tied onto a post. The wave will be reflected with opposite amplitude.

Two springs that are connected will follow the same principle at the boundary between them.
A pulse sent from a light density spring to a heavy density spring will reflect back with an opposite amplitude.
A pulse sent from a thick density spring to a light density spring will reflect back with the same amplitude.
 

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