Understanding the Basics of Wave Phases for Beginners

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Wave phases refer to the position of a wave at a specific point in time, represented by the phase angle φ in the oscillation equation y = A cos(ωt - φ). Understanding phases is crucial for analyzing wave behavior, particularly in determining the relationship between nodes (minimum amplitude) and anti-nodes (maximum amplitude). The discussion highlights confusion around calculating phase changes as a point moves along the wave. Clarifying how φ varies with movement along the wave is essential for grasping wave dynamics. Mastering these concepts is fundamental for beginners in physics.
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Wave Phases? Wtf?

Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution



I managed to do the first part, but not the second part regarding phases. I don't have a clue how to work the second part out. I know that an anti-node is maximum amplitude and a node is at minimum amplitude. But I don't have a clue how to work out phases, nor do I understand what phase means or why it is used.
 
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Welcome to Physics Forums.

It may help to write out the general equation for oscillation at a fixed point:

y = A cos(ωt - φ)​

φ is the phase they are speaking of. The question is, essentially, does φ change as the point P moves from X to Y.
 

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