Sinusoidal Waves: Why Is Textbook Answer 1.5ym?

Thread starter Nyasha
Start date Mar 16, 2010
Tags

Sinusoidal Waves

In summary, a sinusoidal wave is a type of wave described by a sine or cosine function with consistent and smooth oscillations. It is different from other waves in that it has no interruptions or breaks in its pattern and is a transverse wave. The textbook uses the symbol "ym" to represent the amplitude of the wave, which is the maximum displacement from its equilibrium position. The wavelength of a sinusoidal wave is inversely proportional to its frequency, and this relationship is described by the equation λ = v/f. Some real-life examples of sinusoidal waves include sound waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves, as well as their use in technologies like radio and television signals and medical imaging devices.

Mar 16, 2010

Nyasha

The question and attempt to solution is on the attached image. I don't understand why the answer in the textbook is 1.5ym mine is 1.8 ym

Physics news on Phys.org

Mar 16, 2010

kuruman

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Insights Author

Gold Member

2023 Award

If φ₁ = 30^o and φ₂ = 80^o, then φ₂ - φ₁ is not 30^o as you claim in your solution.

1. What is a sinusoidal wave?

A sinusoidal wave is a type of wave that has a repeating pattern and can be described by a sine or cosine function. It is characterized by its amplitude, wavelength, and frequency.

2. How is a sinusoidal wave different from other types of waves?

Unlike other waves, a sinusoidal wave has a consistent and smooth oscillation, with no interruptions or breaks in the pattern. It is also a transverse wave, meaning that the oscillations occur perpendicular to the direction of the wave's propagation.

3. Why is the textbook answer for the amplitude of a sinusoidal wave 1.5ym?

The amplitude of a sinusoidal wave is the maximum displacement of the wave from its equilibrium position. In this case, the textbook is using the symbol "ym" to represent the unit of measurement, which stands for "yoctometer" or 10^-24 meters.

4. How is the wavelength of a sinusoidal wave related to its frequency?

The wavelength of a sinusoidal wave is inversely proportional to its frequency. This means that as the frequency of a wave increases, its wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation λ = v/f, where λ is the wavelength, v is the velocity of the wave, and f is the frequency.

5. What are some real-life examples of sinusoidal waves?

Sinusoidal waves can be found in many natural phenomena, such as sound waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves. They are also used in various technologies, including radio and television signals, musical instruments, and medical imaging devices.