Standing waves on a string -- Find the difference of phases

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the phase difference in standing waves on a string, specifically addressing the equation Δφ = k(Δx). Participants clarify that the phase difference between two points on a string between nodes is π radians, as nodes are spaced by half a wavelength. The confusion arose from incorrectly applying the traveling wave equation to standing waves. The correct interpretation emphasizes that the phase difference is consistently π for points between consecutive nodes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, particularly standing waves
  • Familiarity with the wave number (k) and wavelength (λ)
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometric functions and their applications in wave equations
  • Ability to interpret graphical representations of standing waves
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical derivation of standing wave equations
  • Learn about the differences between traveling waves and standing waves
  • Explore the concept of phase difference in various wave phenomena
  • Investigate practical applications of standing waves in musical instruments
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in wave mechanics, particularly those studying the properties of standing waves and their applications in real-world scenarios.

LCSphysicist
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Homework Statement
I will post below.
Relevant Equations
I am not sure, since i am wrong with my equation.
1599353361990.png

The immediate thing i did here is
## \Delta \varphi = k(\Delta x) ##
Interesting enough for a topic, if you use this equation you end up wrong like me, the answer is not D.
Not sure what is the problem.
 
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Consider a section of the string between two nodes. Consider any two points of the string in this section. How would you describe the phase difference of the motion of these two points?
 
TSny said:
Consider a section of the string between two nodes. Consider any two points of the string in this section. How would you describe the phase difference of the motion of these two points?
The nodes are spaced by a half of the wavelength, that is, pi rad?
As the equation implies:
$$ k\Delta x = \frac{2\pi }{\lambda }*\frac{\lambda }{2} $$
In this case the equation work :/
 
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TSny said:
Identify two consecutive nodes in the following animation. Pick any two points of the string lying between these two nodes. What can you say about the phase difference of the motion of the two points?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standing_wave#/media/File:Standing_wave.gif
Wow, now i get... the difference if pi...
I think i was applying equation of traveling wave for standing waves, right?
 
LCSphysicist said:
Wow, now i get... the difference if pi...
Good.
I think i was applying equation of traveling wave for standing waves, right?
Yes.
 
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