Wave, given wavespeed, wavelength, amplitude - find w.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a wave problem involving wavespeed, wavelength, amplitude, and the determination of angular frequency (w). Participants are analyzing the behavior of the sine function at a specific point in time and space.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of setting the sine function to zero at x=0, questioning the validity of this approach. There are discussions about calculating frequency as an alternative method to find w.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants questioning the assumptions behind the sine function's behavior at specific times. Some guidance is offered regarding the calculation of frequency, but no consensus has been reached on the initial approach.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the conditions under which the sine function equals zero, and participants are grappling with the implications of their assumptions in the context of the problem.

JoeyBob
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Homework Statement
See attached
Relevant Equations
y(x, t) = Asin(kx-wt)
What I chose to do was analyze what happened at x=0. At x=0 I know sin of whatever will be 0.

So 0=sin(kx-wt) and since x=0, w=Arcsin(0)/t. But this doesn't make sense because the answer isn't 0, its 0.695.
 

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JoeyBob said:
At x=0 I know sin of whatever will be 0.
You do? Why?
 
haruspex said:
You do? Why?

Because 0=sin(-wt), so sin of whatever would be 0.

I suppose I could calculate frequency to find w, but idk why this method doesn't work too.
 
JoeyBob said:
Because 0=sin(-wt)
But that is what I am questioning. Why do you say 0=sin(-wt)? That will only be true at certain times.
 
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haruspex said:
But that is what I am questioning. Why do you say 0=sin(-wt)? That will only be true at certain times.
Makes sense, thanks.
 

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