The discussion centers on the phase difference in standing waves, specifically why it is zero when there is an even number of nodes between two vibrating particles. It is clarified that an even number of nodes results in a phase change of π (180 degrees) as one moves past each node. This means that if two particles are separated by an even number of nodes, they will oscillate in phase, leading to a phase difference of zero. The importance of visualizing the wave's snapshot is emphasized to understand this concept better. Overall, the relationship between nodes and phase difference is crucial in understanding standing wave behavior.