Wave Direction: Understanding the Relationship Between Points and Answers

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding wave motion and the relationship between points on a wave and their respective positions over time. Participants are exploring the implications of wave direction and the movement of wave crests.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the movement of a point on a wave and its relationship to the wave's direction. There are attempts to clarify the distinction between the wave moving and the point's position. Some participants seek further explanation on the implications of shifting the wave.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the concepts, with some participants providing guidance on visualizing the problem through sketches. A participant expresses a realization regarding the new position of the point, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information available for discussion. There is an emphasis on understanding rather than providing direct solutions.

Cici2017

Homework Statement


Screen Shot 2017-09-10 at 5.47.16 pm.png

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


the point is going down the wave, so shouldn't the answer be D? Why is it B? Thank you! [/B]
 
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Look at the wave crests, they are moving to the right. What happens "next" at that point depends on what is just to the left of the point.

PS The point doesn't move down the wave. The wave moves past the point.
 
CWatters said:
What happens "next" at that point depends on what is just to the left of the point.

Can you please explain this more? I don't get it ~ Thank you!
 
Try this...
Print out the drawing.
Draw the wave shifted to the right about 1/4" or 5mm.
Mark on it the new position of the point
If possible post your sketch here.
 
CWatters said:
Try this...
Print out the drawing.
Draw the wave shifted to the right about 1/4" or 5mm.
Mark on it the new position of the point
If possible post your sketch here.
ahh~ I think I got it. the new position of the point is higher than the old position, so the direction is up. Am I right?
 
Correct.
 

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