Phase Difference between two waves from antennas

In summary, the question asks for the phase difference between the waves arriving at observer P from antennas A and B, given that the antennas are broadcasting perfectly in phase with each other at a frequency of 96.0 MHz and are separated by a distance of 12.40m. An observer, P, is located on the x axis, 55.0m from antenna A, forming a right triangle with PB as the hypotenuse. The solution involves converting the frequency to wavelengths, finding the pathlength difference between AP and BP, and converting this to radians using the formula 1 wavelength = 2pi radians. However, the pathlength difference cannot be found without knowing the distance between maxima (y), and the solution remains
  • #1
skibum143
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Homework Statement


Two antennas located at points A and B are broadcasting radio waves of frequency 96.0 MHz, perfectly in phase with each other. The two antennas are separated by a distance d=12.40m. An observer, P, is located on the x axis, a distance x=55.0m from antenna A, so that APB forms a right triangle with PB as hypotenuse. What is the phase difference between the waves arriving at P from antennas A and B? Use units of "rad" for the answer. (If you are stuck, read the hint.)


Homework Equations


1 wavelength = 2pi radians
m * lambda / distance between slits = distance between maxima (y) / Distance to screen
c/f = lambda

The Attempt at a Solution


First, I converted 96MHz to wavelengths, = 3.125 m
Then, I wanted to find the pathlength of AP and the pathlength of BP, but I don't know how to do this without knowing the distance between maxima (y). If I had y, I could find the value of the order (m), and then I would know the pathlength difference. How do I solve for this?

Finally, I will convert the pathlength distance to radians with the above formula. I just don't understand how to get the pathlength distance.
 

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  • #2
I know that AP = 55m and BP = 56.4m, I just don't know how to find the wavelength of pathlength difference
 
  • #3
So I know the difference in the paths is 1.4m, but when I multiply that by the wavelength, (3.125m), and convert to radians it is wrong.
 

1. What is phase difference between two waves from antennas?

Phase difference between two waves from antennas is the measure of how much the peaks and troughs of two waves are offset from each other. It is usually measured in degrees or radians and can range from 0 to 360 degrees.

2. How is phase difference between two waves calculated?

Phase difference is calculated by finding the time difference between the corresponding peaks or troughs of two waves. This time difference is then converted into degrees or radians to determine the phase difference between the two waves.

3. What is the importance of phase difference in antenna systems?

Phase difference is crucial in antenna systems as it determines the direction and strength of the resulting electromagnetic radiation. A phase difference of 0 degrees results in constructive interference, while a phase difference of 180 degrees results in destructive interference.

4. How does phase difference affect the quality of a signal in antenna systems?

The phase difference between two waves can affect the quality of a signal in antenna systems. If the phase difference is not properly managed, it can result in interference and distortions in the signal, leading to a decrease in signal strength and quality.

5. Can phase difference be controlled in antenna systems?

Yes, phase difference can be controlled in antenna systems through various techniques such as using phase shifters, adjusting the length of the transmission line, or using directional couplers. These methods can help in managing the phase difference and improving the overall performance of the antenna system.

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