Speed and direction of a travelling wave

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining whether the wave function \Psi(y,t)=A\cos^2(2\pi(t-y)) represents a traveling wave and calculating its speed and direction. The general form of a traveling wave is referenced, leading to confusion about the order of terms in the equation. Clarification is provided that both (t-y) and (-y+t) represent the same relationship, resulting in a speed of -1 or 1 depending on the interpretation. The use of partial derivatives is suggested to verify the calculated speed. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of consistent notation in wave equations.
sarvensogo
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Homework Statement


\Psi(y,t)=A\cos^22\pi(t-y)
Show that this is a traveling wave. Use the general form of a traveling wave to determine its speed and direction.
Verify your answer using \frac{-\partial \Psi / \partial t}{\partial \Psi / \partial x}

Homework Equations


The general form of a traveling wave from class is \Psi(x,t)=f(x-vt).

The Attempt at a Solution


So I tried to just use the form of the traveling wave, but the thing that confused me was whether or not I had to switch around the order of (t-y) in the equation to (-y+t)? If I leave it as is I get that the speed (v) is -1, but if I change the equation to read (-y+t) the speed becomes 1 instead. Either way using the partial derivative equation verifies my answer. I can post my handwritten work if neccesary for proof that I attempted it.

Thanks
 
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sarvensogo said:
So I tried to just use the form of the traveling wave, but the thing that confused me was whether or not I had to switch around the order of (t-y) in the equation to (-y+t)? If I leave it as is I get that the speed (v) is -1, but if I change the equation to read (-y+t) the speed becomes 1 instead.
Please show your work (ideally typed here, that is easier to read. You can also use LaTeX). That should not happen as t-y is exactly the same as -y+t.
 
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