New wave after superposition (interference)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the superposition of two waves, Y1 and Y2, to form a standing wave. Participants seek clarification on determining whether the interference is constructive or destructive and whether the waves are longitudinal or transverse. There is confusion about the roles of sine and cosine in the resulting equation and the application of trigonometric identities to analyze the superposition. The concept of superposition is confirmed as the sum of the two wave equations, Y1 + Y2, rather than a difference. Understanding these principles is essential for analyzing wave behavior in physics.
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Homework Statement


1. Homework Statement [/B]
The displacement y of standing wave that is obtained by a superposition of waves :
Y1 = 3 sin (2##\pi##(0.5t - 0 25 x))
Y2 = 3 sin (2##\pi##(0.5t + 0 25 x))

Homework Equations


Formula for standing waves
Y = 2Asinkx coswt

The Attempt at a Solution


Y1 going to right
Y2 going to left
Both have different direction.

How to decide it is constructive or destructive interference?
Are they longitudinal or transverse waves? Does it matter?

How to know in the new equation, which belong to sin x or t variable, which belong to cos?
 
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You should be able to find these on your own. Look under Sum-to-product.
 
kuruman said:
You should be able to find these on your own. Look under Sum-to-product.
Oh. So superposition is y1 + y2 ?
Why superposition not happen to be y1 - y2?
How to know if both waves get destructive or constructive interference?
 
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