Understanding Beat Frequency: Equations and Solutions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating beat frequency using the equation f1 - f2 = 5 Hz and analyzing a graph that shows 8 complete wavelengths over an interval of 0.15 seconds. Participants identified a calculation error, determining the frequency to be 50 Hz based on the formula f = number of events / Δt. The consensus is that the calculated frequency represents the average of the two source frequencies, f1 and f2, and there was confusion regarding the problem statement's beat frequency value.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of beat frequency concepts
  • Familiarity with frequency calculations and equations
  • Basic knowledge of wave properties and graph interpretation
  • Proficiency in using mathematical formulas for physics problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the concept of beat frequency in wave physics
  • Practice frequency calculations using different wave scenarios
  • Learn about graph interpretation in the context of wave phenomena
  • Explore common errors in frequency-related physics problems
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Students studying physics, educators teaching wave mechanics, and anyone interested in mastering frequency calculations and beat frequency concepts.

thereddevils
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Homework Statement



See attachment.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



f1 - f2 = 5

What's there for me to interpret in the graph?
 

Attachments

  • Beat frequency.jpg
    Beat frequency.jpg
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From the graph you can see 8 complete wavelengths. This occurs in an interval of 0.15s

therefore f=number of events(or wavelengths) / \Deltat .


R.
 
Rick88 said:
From the graph you can see 8 complete wavelengths. This occurs in an interval of 0.15s

therefore f=number of events(or wavelengths) / \Deltat .


R.

I counted 7.5 and taking a closer look the interval is 0.16.

f=8/(0.16)=50

What is this frequency? Is it the frequency of one of the sources? Or is it the resultant frequency?

By the way, the answer given is A
 
The f you calculated is the average of f1 and f2.
thereddevils said:

The Attempt at a Solution



f1 - f2 = 5
The answer choices suggest a different value for f1 - f2.
 
Redbelly98 said:
The f you calculated is the average of f1 and f2.

The answer choices suggest a different value for f1 - f2.

so the answer should be C?
 
thereddevils said:
so the answer should be C?
Based on your calculation of 50 Hz, yes. However, I recommend doing the following calculation over (can you spot the error?):
thereddevils said:
I counted 7.5 and taking a closer look the interval is 0.16.

f=8/(0.16)=50

By the way, the answer given is A
I think the author of the question is confused. They also stated the wrong beat frequency in the problem statement.
 
Redbelly98 said:
Based on your calculation of 50 Hz, yes. However, I recommend doing the following calculation over (can you spot the error?):



I think the author of the question is confused. They also stated the wrong beat frequency in the problem statement.

ok thanks all for helping.
 

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