Calculating Intensity at a Distance of 200 m from Three Intersecting Waves

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the intensity at a specific distance and angle for a given amplitude function of three intersecting waves. The intensity is equal to the square of the amplitude, but the exponential term needs to be taken into account when calculating it.
  • #1
kasse
384
1
If the amplitude of three intersecting waves is given by

[tex]y(r,t) = \frac{A}{r}e^{i(kr-wt)}[1-2cos(kdsin\theta)][/tex]

how can I then find the intensity at r = 200 m as a function of [tex]\theta[/tex]?

I know that intensity is the square of the amplitude. Should I simply square y(r,t)? If I do, I get I as a function of t as well, because of the part [tex]e^{i(kr-wt)}[/tex].
 
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  • #2
kasse said:
If the amplitude of three intersecting waves is given by

[tex]y(r,t) = \frac{A}{r}e^{i(kr-wt)}[1-2cos(kdsin\theta)][/tex]

how can I then find the intensity at r = 200 m as a function of [tex]\theta[/tex]?

I know that intensity is the square of the amplitude. Should I simply square y(r,t)? If I do, I get I as a function of t as well, because of the part [tex]e^{i(kr-wt)}[/tex].

intensity is [tex]I=A^* A[/tex]
where A is the amplitude
so that makes the exponential term go away
 
  • #3
Thanks!
 

1. How do you calculate intensity at a distance of 200 m from three intersecting waves?

To calculate the intensity at a distance of 200 m from three intersecting waves, you will need to use the principle of superposition. This means adding the individual intensities of each wave at the specified distance. The formula for calculating intensity is I = P/A, where P is the power of the wave and A is the area through which the wave is passing.

2. What is the principle of superposition and why is it important?

The principle of superposition states that when multiple waves overlap, the resulting disturbance at any point is equal to the sum of the individual disturbances caused by each wave. This principle is important in calculating intensity at a distance of 200 m from three intersecting waves because it allows us to determine the overall intensity at that point.

3. Can intensity be negative at a distance of 200 m from three intersecting waves?

No, intensity cannot be negative at a distance of 200 m from three intersecting waves. Intensity is a measure of the amount of energy passing through a unit area, and it is always a positive value. If the resulting intensity is calculated to be negative, it is likely due to a calculation error.

4. How does the distance from the source affect the intensity of a wave?

The intensity of a wave decreases as the distance from the source increases. This is due to the spreading out of the wave as it travels through space. The further the distance, the more the wave will spread out and the lower the intensity will be at a specific point.

5. Are there any other factors that can affect the intensity of a wave at a distance of 200 m from three intersecting waves?

Yes, there are other factors that can affect the intensity of a wave at a distance of 200 m from three intersecting waves. These can include obstacles in the path of the waves, atmospheric conditions, and the properties of the medium through which the waves are traveling. These factors can alter the intensity of the waves and should be taken into consideration when calculating intensity at a specific distance.

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