Wave equation for a standing wave - clarification needed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the mathematical representation of standing waves, specifically addressing the differences in equations due to phase shifts. The equations for standing waves are presented as 2A*sin(kx)*sin(ωt) for a string with both ends fixed, 2A*sin(kx)*cos(ωt) for one end fixed and the other free, and 2A*cos(kx)*cos(ωt) for both ends free. The phase term is crucial for accurately describing the wave's state at t=0 and x=0, as it allows for variations in the wave's motion at arbitrary starting conditions.

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Both of the highlighted equations deal with a standing wave. However, they are slightly different in the sense that the latter has a phase shift in it.

Why ?

Also, how does one go from the latter equation for a standing wave to :

2A*sinkx*sinwt. For a string with both ends fixed

And

2A*sinkx*coswt. For one end fixed and the other free

And

2A*coskx*coswt. For both free.
 
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eq. 4.4.2 deals with the specific situation where the amplitude of the wave is zero everywhere at t=0, and the point x=0 is always a node.

However, t=0 is just when we happen to press the button on the stopwatch and x=0 is just where we happen to put the ruler at the time. These are arbitrary: the wave in front of you could be at any stage in it's motion at t=0 for eg. and the ruler may not start at a node.

The phase term is needed to account for the possibility that at t=0, and x=0, the wave is not in such a tidy state.

The other possibilities come from the phase terms ... you change from a sine to a cosine by changing phase by ##\pi/2##.
 

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