Need help with argument about wave equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of the symbol 'c' in the wave equation v = f / λ, specifically whether 'c' can be used interchangeably with 'v' to represent wave speed in different contexts, including electromagnetic and non-electromagnetic waves.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that 'c' can be used instead of 'v' when referring to electromagnetic waves in a vacuum, as they equate the two.
  • Others question whether 'c' can be applied to non-electromagnetic waves, suggesting that its use might be incorrect in those contexts.
  • A later reply indicates that the appropriateness of using 'c' depends on its definition—if 'c' is defined as the speed of light in a vacuum, it cannot be used for other wave types, but if it represents a general wave speed, it could be acceptable, albeit potentially confusing.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the use of 'c' for wave speed, indicating that there is no consensus on whether it can be applied to non-electromagnetic waves without causing confusion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the potential for confusion when using 'c' in contexts outside of electromagnetic waves, as well as the dependence on definitions of symbols in wave equations.

Pseudo Epsilon
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in the equation v=f/lambda can you use c instead of v for wavespeed?
 
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Hi Pseudo Epsilon! :smile:
Pseudo Epsilon said:
in the equation v=f\lambda can you use c instead of v for wavespeed?

If c = v, yes.

(ie electromagnetic waves in a vacuum)
 
but I've heard it used for other things. Cant it EVER be used for non-em waves? Would it e incorect?
 
Pseudo Epsilon said:
but I've heard it used for other things. Cant it EVER be used for non-em waves? Would it e incorect?

It depends on whether or not you are using c to mean the speed of light in a vacuum. If you are then you can't use it as that isn't the speed of the wave. If you are using it as a general speed of a wave and not ##3 \times10^8## then you could use it in the same way as you could use any other symbol, however using c does risk confusion.
 
and c-sickness! :smile:​

all those waves :redface: …​
 
lol.thanks
 

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