Phase difference after passing through liquid and glass

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the phase difference between two waves, Wave A traveling through a glass container with liquid and Wave B traveling through a vacuum. Wave A has a glass refractive index of 1.52 and a liquid refractive index of 1.33, while Wave B has a wavelength of 500nm in a vacuum. The key equations discussed include the relationship between speed, wavelength, and refractive index, specifically c/n = λv. The participants emphasize the importance of calculating the time taken for each wave to reach the finish line to determine the relative phase difference.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave properties and behavior in different media.
  • Knowledge of refractive indices and their impact on wave speed.
  • Familiarity with phase difference calculations in wave mechanics.
  • Basic proficiency in using equations related to wave speed and wavelength.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the equation c/n = λv in wave mechanics.
  • Learn how to calculate phase differences using Δφ = Δt/vo.
  • Research the effects of different refractive indices on wave propagation.
  • Explore practical examples of phase differences in optics and wave interference.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics and optics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of phase differences in various media.

magnesium12
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Homework Statement


Two waves travel next to each other for 100cm.
Wave A passes through a glass container containing liquid. The thickness of the glass in total is 1cm and the width of the liquid is 10cm. The glass has n = 1.52 and the liquid has n=1.33.
Wave B passes through a vacuum and has wavelength 500nm.
Both waves start out in phase. Find the relative phase differences at the finishing line (after 100cm).

Homework Equations


c/n = λv (?)

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure where to start.
I was thinking that the phase difference will be proportional to the difference in time it takes to get to the finish line.
Δφ = Δt
But I have no idea how to find the difference in the time it takes for each wave to get to the end.
 
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You need to rethink (or look up) your equations. Dimensions don't match in both cases !
 
BvU said:
You need to rethink (or look up) your equations. Dimensions don't match in both cases !

So I found this: Δφ/2π = Δt/vo
And then t = c/λ and I find the new wavelength for each section of path B with c/nv and then add up the times?
 

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