Need help understanding algebra involved with nodal and antinodal lines

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on understanding the algebra involved in determining the number of nodal and antinodal lines using the formula | dsinθmax = n*λ |. Given the values d = 51 cm and λ = 4, the calculation leads to n = 12.75. The key algebraic manipulation involves transitioning from | (n*λ) / d ≤ 1 | to | n ≤ (d / λ) |, which is essential for finding the maximum number of antinodal lines. Clarification is sought on the algebraic steps taken to achieve this result.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics and the concepts of nodal and antinodal lines.
  • Familiarity with the formula | dsinθmax = n*λ | used in wave interference problems.
  • Basic algebra skills, particularly in manipulating inequalities.
  • Knowledge of the relationship between wavelength (λ), distance (d), and the number of lines (n).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the formula | dsinθmax = n*λ | in the context of wave interference.
  • Learn how to manipulate inequalities in algebra, focusing on practical applications in physics.
  • Explore examples of nodal and antinodal line calculations in various wave scenarios.
  • Review the principles of constructive and destructive interference in wave mechanics.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to nodal and antinodal lines in wave interference patterns.

jono240
Messages
11
Reaction score
0
There is a crucial aspect of this unit that I am not understanding and that is how to find how many nodal or anti nodal lines are in the equation.

relevant formulas:
So if I am looking for how many anti nodal lines exist I use the formula | dsinθmax = n*λ |

So let's say I have d and λ
d = 51cm and λ = 4

So we need to solve for n

1. Now on the board, the teacher will write the formula | dsinθmax = n*λ |

2. from there we get | sinθmax = (n*λ) / d | which cannot be greater than 1.

3. so | (n*λ) / d ≤ 1 |

4. then we get | n ≤ (d / λ) |

5. n = (51 / 4)

6. n = 12.75

then you get the answer for n.
I just don't get at all how you get from 3. to 4. algebraically
i really need this cleared up. I need to understand how that works. I hope someone can explain it to me
thanks
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
I'm not entirely sure if this is real, but regardless, here you go:

\left| \frac{n\lambda}{d}\leq1\right|
\left| \frac{n\lambda}{d}\frac{d}{\lambda}\leq \frac{d}{\lambda} \right|
\left| n\leq\frac{d}{\lambda}\right|
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
6K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
7K
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
9K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K