Path Difference: Why a Cold Spot Forms at S

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the formation of cold spots in microwaves, specifically at point S in a given setup. The calculation involved determining the path difference of microwaves reflecting off surfaces, where the path difference was calculated as (30 + 12) - (18 + 6). The correct approach requires dividing this path difference by the wavelength of the microwaves to understand the interference pattern. The wavelength or frequency of the microwaves is crucial for accurately determining the cold spot's formation.

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  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Knowledge of microwave wavelength and frequency
  • Familiarity with basic geometry and reflection concepts
  • Ability to perform calculations involving path differences
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  • Research the principles of wave interference and standing waves
  • Learn about microwave frequency and its relation to wavelength
  • Explore the concept of path difference in wave physics
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Luke1121
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I was doing a past paper earlier and i got a question about cold spots in microwaves and i needed to calculate path difference the question was:

---------|------->S<---------|--------- Explain why a cold spot is formed at S
18cm | 6cm. 12cm | 30cm

The question showed the waves reflecting off the top and sides of the microwave which are shown by the -|-

It was 4 marks so a calculation should be done and i did (30+12)-(18+6) then i didnt know what to do, i then found out you are supposed to divide (30+12)-(18+6) by 12. But I am not really sure why, can anyone explain why? Thanks
 
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What is the wavelength or frequency of the microwaves?
 

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