Phase Difference Homework: Find Magnitude of Phase Difference at Detector

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the magnitude of the phase difference at a detector between two sources emitting radio waves. The sources have a specified wavelength and an initial phase difference, with additional considerations regarding the distances to the detector.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial phase difference and the impact of the distance difference on the overall phase difference. There are questions about the calculations and the reasoning behind arriving at a specific value for the phase difference.

Discussion Status

Some participants are questioning the calculations presented, noting potential oversights in the reasoning. Others have indicated that they have resolved their confusion through peer assistance, suggesting a mix of exploration and clarification in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a specific wavelength and the distances involved, which may influence the calculations. The original poster expresses uncertainty about their approach and results, indicating a need for further clarification on the problem setup.

KingBigness
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Homework Statement


Sources A and B emit long-range radio waves of wavelength 550 m, with the phase of the emission from A ahead of that from source B by 90°. The distance rA from A to a detector is greater than the corresponding distance rB from B by 140 m. What is the magnitude of the phase difference at the detector?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




Initially, source A leads source B by 90°, which is equivalent to \frac{1}{4} wavelength.
However, source A also lags behind source B since rA is longer than rB by 140 m, which is \frac{140}{550}=0.2545 wavelength. So the net phase difference between A and B at the
detector is -0.732 Rad.

This is wrong though, can someone help me =D
 
Last edited:
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How'd you come up with -0.732 rad? It looks like you completely ignored one of the terms.
 
To be honest I'm not sure.
I have tried everything I can think off but all my answers are wrong.
 
Thank you for your time but I asked a friend and he showed me. It was just a stupid mistake that I missed thank yiu
 

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