Quick Question on maximum pressure change in a stationary wave

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of pressure change in stationary waves, specifically addressing the characteristics of nodes and antinodes in relation to pressure variation.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between velocity and pressure change at nodes and antinodes, questioning the assertion that nodes represent areas of greatest pressure change.

Discussion Status

Some participants are attempting to clarify the definitions of nodes and antinodes, with one providing a reference to external material that illustrates the concepts. There is an ongoing exploration of the relationship between molecular movement and pressure change.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of difficulty in conveying the concepts without visual aids, and participants are considering the implications of the definitions provided in the question versus their own understanding.

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I always thought antinodes were the areas of greatest pressure change as they shift to and fro, reaching maximum amplitudes at both sides. However, one of the questions asked me and the answer says that nodes are the areas of greatest pressure change.

Can anyone help? I am confused with this. Thanks.
 
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It sounds like they are calling nodes the locations of zero velocity, which is where the pressure change is greatest.
 
But 0 velocity=greatest pressure change?

Im really confused.
 
Sorry about the delayed reply, it is difficult to explain this further without figures. I found this, which helps show what I'm talking about:
http://www.walter-fendt.de/ph14e/stlwaves.htm

On that page, "both sides open" should be selected. We'll look at two parts of the tube, the center and the ends.

At the center of the tube: the molecules do not move at the very center, so velocity is zero. However, you'll also notice that the molecules surrounding the center alternate between bunching together and spreading apart. So the pressure (which corresponds directly with the density or closeness of the molecules) has a maximum change there.

At the ends of the tube, the molecules are moving back and forth with maximum velocity change. However, their spacing stays the same, indicating zero change in pressure.

Hope that helps!
 

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