Pi/2 Translational Difference in y(x,t) Equations

In summary, there is a translational difference of pi/2 between the equations y(x,t)=Acos(kx-ωt) and y(x,t)=Asin(kx-ωt) discussed in the conversation. However, this difference is only a matter of initial conditions and does not affect the overall results. Both equations represent the same wave motion, just measured relative to different points in space and/or time. Therefore, either equation can be used for calculations.
  • #1
Helicobacter
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In my text
y(x,t)=Acos(kx-ω t)
In the teacher's handout:
y(x,t)=Asin(kx-ω t)
There's a translational difference of pi/2 between them! I don't know which one to use for the test :S
 
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  • #2
hehe, its just a matter of initial condition (with difference of pi)
and thereotically an ideal sound wave is usually calculated for a stablized value which means the initial condition doesn't matter much.. very seldom do we need to know its initial condition..
so no matter sin or cos will end up with e same results.
and u can use either one u want due to different kinds of calculations
 
  • #3
To be accurate, there's a translational difference of pi/2k between them.

Or looking at it a different way, there is a time difference ot pi/2ω

As zergju says, they both represent "the same wave motion", but measured relative to differet points in space and/or time.
 
  • #4
That was helpful, thanks
 

What is the "pi/2 translational difference" in y(x,t) equations?

The "pi/2 translational difference" in y(x,t) equations refers to the difference in the position of a point on a wave at time t compared to its position at time t+π/2. This difference is caused by a shift in the phase of the wave, which is represented by the π/2 term in the equation.

Why is the pi/2 translational difference important in scientific research?

The pi/2 translational difference is important because it allows scientists to accurately describe the behavior of waves in different contexts. This difference can affect how waves interact with each other and with different materials, leading to important discoveries and applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and medicine.

How is the pi/2 translational difference calculated in y(x,t) equations?

The pi/2 translational difference is calculated using the phase angle of a wave, which is represented by the π/2 term in the equation. This phase angle can be determined by measuring the position of a point on the wave at two different times, t and t+π/2, and calculating the difference between these positions.

Can the pi/2 translational difference be negative?

Yes, the pi/2 translational difference can be negative. This means that the position of a point on the wave at time t+π/2 is lower than its position at time t. This can occur when the wave is moving in the opposite direction or when there is a phase shift due to the properties of the medium it is traveling through.

Are there any real-world examples of the pi/2 translational difference?

Yes, there are many real-world examples of the pi/2 translational difference. One example is the phenomenon of beat frequencies in sound waves, where two waves with slightly different frequencies can create a pi/2 phase shift between them. This can be observed in musical instruments, such as two guitar strings playing the same note but slightly out of tune with each other.

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