Representing Velocity, Acceleration, and Jerking as compressional waves.

In summary, the conversation discusses representing velocity, acceleration, and jerk as compressional waves and defining their frequency and amplitude as functions. The wave equation governing compressional waves is also mentioned. There seems to be confusion on the specific details and purpose of the question.
  • #1
Axoren
17
0

Homework Statement


[tex]\vec{Velocity}[/tex] = [tex]\Delta[/tex]Displacement/[tex]\Delta[/tex]Time
[tex]\vec{Acceleration}[/tex] = [tex]\Delta[/tex]Velocity/[tex]\Delta[/tex]Time
[tex]\vec{Jerk}[/tex] = [tex]\Delta[/tex]Acceleration/[tex]\Delta[/tex]Time

Represent the above as compressional waves. Define their frequency and amplitude as functions.

Homework Equations


See above.

The Attempt at a Solution


No clue what the hell my teacher is talking about... I think he means like amplitude would be Acceleration * Time, and Frequency would be 1 / Time, but I don't know.
 
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  • #2
Hmm, well the wave equation governing compressional waves is:

[tex]\bigtriangleup \Theta - \frac{1}{c_c^2}\frac{\partial ^2\Theta}{\partial t^2}[/tex]

Where [tex]\Theta[/tex] is the divergence of the displacement field, and [tex]c_c^2=\frac{2\mu+\lambda}{\rho}[/tex] (\mu and \lambda are the lame constants.)

But exactly what does your teacher want with the question?
 
  • #3
Isn't that transverse waves? I'm doing poorly in physics...
 

1. What is the relationship between velocity and compressional waves?

The velocity of compressional waves is directly proportional to the density and elasticity of the medium through which the wave is traveling. This means that as the velocity of the wave increases, the density and elasticity of the medium also increase.

2. How is acceleration represented in a compressional wave?

In a compressional wave, acceleration is represented by the change in velocity over time. This means that as the wave travels through the medium, the velocity of the particles in the wave will change, resulting in acceleration.

3. Can compressional waves experience jerking?

Yes, compressional waves can experience jerking. Jerking, also known as jolting, is the sudden change in velocity or acceleration of particles in a wave. This can occur due to changes in the medium, such as a sudden increase in temperature or pressure.

4. How are velocity, acceleration, and jerking related in a compressional wave?

Velocity, acceleration, and jerking are all related in a compressional wave through the wave equation. This equation describes the relationship between the three variables and how they change over time as the wave travels through the medium.

5. Can compressional waves be used to measure the properties of a medium?

Yes, compressional waves can be used to measure the properties of a medium. By analyzing the velocity, acceleration, and jerking of a wave as it travels through a medium, scientists can determine the density, elasticity, and other properties of the medium. This is commonly used in seismology to study the properties of the Earth's interior.

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