Unraveling the Wave Equation: Exploring its Origins

In summary, the wave equation is a mathematical formula that describes the behavior of a wave in a given medium, and it represents the relationship between the wave's frequency, wavelength, and speed. It was first discovered by the French mathematician Jean le Rond d'Alembert in the 18th century and is used in various fields of science, such as physics, engineering, and mathematics, to study the behavior of waves in different mediums. Its key components are the variables representing the wave's frequency, wavelength, and speed, and it has many real-world applications, including in the design of musical instruments, earthquake detection, and medical imaging. It is also used in technologies like radar and sonar.
  • #1
coki2000
91
0
Hi,
Why the wave equation is
[tex]\frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial^2 x}=c^2\nabla^2 u[/tex]?
Where does it come from?Thanks.
 
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  • #2
coki2000 said:
Hi,
Why the wave equation is
[tex]\frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial^2 x}=c^2\nabla^2 u[/tex]?
Where does it come from?Thanks.

For me to consider your relationship the wave equation I would have to change it to:

[tex]\frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial^2 t}=c^2\nabla^2 u[/tex]

The wave equation is probabley derived in every intro to PDE textbook.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0486688895/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. What is the wave equation and what does it represent?

The wave equation is a mathematical formula that describes the behavior of a wave in a given medium. It represents the relationship between the wave's frequency, wavelength, and speed.

2. Who first discovered the wave equation?

The wave equation was first discovered by the French mathematician Jean le Rond d'Alembert in the 18th century.

3. How is the wave equation used in different fields of science?

The wave equation is used in a variety of fields, including physics, engineering, and mathematics. It is used to study the behavior of waves in different mediums, such as sound waves, electromagnetic waves, and water waves.

4. What are the key components of the wave equation?

The key components of the wave equation are the variables representing the wave's frequency (f), wavelength (λ), and speed (v). It is typically written as v = fλ, where v is the speed of the wave.

5. What are some real-world applications of the wave equation?

The wave equation has many practical applications, such as in the design of musical instruments, earthquake detection, and medical imaging. It is also used in technologies like radar and sonar.

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