Longitudinal Waves: Do Devices Use AM or FM?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the use of amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FM) in relation to longitudinal waves, particularly in the context of devices inspired by Nikola Tesla's theories and inventions. Participants explore the implications of these wave types in both scientific and fictional contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether longitudinal wave devices use AM or FM.
  • Another participant suggests that Tesla's work involved longitudinal waves for superluminal communication, which is challenged by others who assert that electromagnetic waves are transverse.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about the applicability of AM and FM to different types of waves, with one noting that any wave type could theoretically use either modulation method.
  • Several participants mention their interest in "fringe physics" and unorthodox scientific views, particularly in relation to Tesla's inventions.
  • A participant describes the Tesla Set as an urban legend for interplanetary communication, prompting further questions about its feasibility.
  • There is a discussion about the relevance of personal theories and the distinction between fictional devices and mainstream science.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the use of AM or FM for longitudinal waves, and there is disagreement regarding the nature of Tesla's work and its scientific validity. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views presented.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference Tesla's theories and inventions, which may not align with established scientific understanding. The discussion includes speculative elements and urban legends that are not grounded in mainstream science.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the intersection of fringe physics, historical scientific theories, and speculative fiction may find this discussion relevant.

RyderP
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Do longitudinal wave devices use AM or FM?
 
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Devices like surfers ? Please give a bit more context.
 
Longitudinal waves, the ones Nikola Tesla was working on, for superluminal power and communication.
 
RyderP said:
Longitudinal waves, the ones Nikola Tesla was working on, for superluminal power and communication.

Tesla was not working on superluminal anything. And electromagnetic waves are transverse waves, not longitudinal.
What does this have to do with science fiction writing and world building?
 
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I think someone else answered my question: it would have to be FM.
 
Thanks just the same, though.
 
RyderP said:
I think someone else answered my question: it would have to be FM.

I'm not sure that makes sense. As far as I'm aware, any type of wave can use Amplitude Modulation or Frequency Modulation.
 
I study a lot of "fringe physics," such as zero-point energy. I hope that would explain my question.
 
RyderP said:
I study a lot of "fringe physics," such as zero-point energy. I hope that would explain my question.

I can't say that it does.
 
  • #10
I'm an amateur researcher, and writer of science fiction. Part of my work is studying more unorthodox views of science, such as Nikola Tesla and Robert T. Bakker.
 
  • #11
That's nice, but what does it have to do with your question?
 
  • #12
I've been sudying Tesla's work on something called a Teslascope or Tesla Set for interplanetary communication, in real time.
 
  • #13
As long as it's a fictional device then you can discuss it here. If you're trying to develop this device in real life then you're going to have to take it elsewhere, as we stick to mainstream science here at PF. Personal theories and research that goes beyond the bounds of mainstream science are against PF rules.
 
  • #14
Yes, it's for my writing - both for Geneon and for New Albion.
 
  • #15
Alright then. Did you have a question relating to this device or anything?
 
  • #16
How would a Tesla Set be possible?
 
  • #17
I'm sorry I don't know what that is and google just gives me a bunch of info on Tesla Motors when I do a search.
 
  • #18
A Tesla Set was an urban legend of a device that, in theory, provide real-time power and communications between worlds and systems.
 
  • #19
Alright. Well, it's mostly up to you to determine how you want it to work. It can't work in real life obviously, so you don't need to worry about trying to be too technically accurate.
 
  • #20
RyderP said:
A Tesla Set was an urban legend of a device that, in theory, provide real-time power and communications between worlds and systems.
I think you mean Tesla's world system which was based on his invention named wireless aka one wire transmission of electrical energy. You can read about this in his patents and lectures.
 

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