Representing Velocity, Acceleration, and Jerking as compressional waves.

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on representing velocity, acceleration, and jerk as compressional waves in physics. The key equations provided are \(\vec{Velocity} = \DeltaDisplacement/\DeltaTime\), \(\vec{Acceleration} = \DeltaVelocity/\DeltaTime\), and \(\vec{Jerk} = \DeltaAcceleration/\DeltaTime\). The wave equation governing compressional waves is given as \(\bigtriangleup \Theta - \frac{1}{c_c^2}\frac{\partial ^2\Theta}{\partial t^2}\), where \(c_c^2=\frac{2\mu+\lambda}{\rho}\). The discussion highlights confusion regarding the teacher's expectations and the distinction between compressional and transverse waves.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts: velocity, acceleration, and jerk
  • Familiarity with wave equations, specifically compressional waves
  • Knowledge of Lame constants (\(\mu\) and \(\lambda\)) and their role in wave propagation
  • Basic calculus for differentiating functions over time
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of compressional waves in detail
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of the wave equation
  • Explore the relationship between frequency, amplitude, and physical quantities in wave mechanics
  • Investigate the differences between compressional and transverse waves
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to motion and wave representation.

Axoren
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Homework Statement


\vec{Velocity} = \DeltaDisplacement/\DeltaTime
\vec{Acceleration} = \DeltaVelocity/\DeltaTime
\vec{Jerk} = \DeltaAcceleration/\DeltaTime

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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Hmm, well the wave equation governing compressional waves is:

\bigtriangleup \Theta - \frac{1}{c_c^2}\frac{\partial ^2\Theta}{\partial t^2}

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

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

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