The phase angle phi in the harmonic oscillation function Acos(ωT + φ) determines the initial position of the oscillating system. The variable ω represents the angular frequency, while φ shifts the graph horizontally, affecting the starting point of the oscillation. The discussion clarifies that the function can be expressed as either sine or cosine, depending on the value of φ, with a specific relationship between sine and cosine functions illustrated by the identity sin(x + π) = cos(x). Understanding this relationship is crucial for analyzing the behavior of simple harmonic motion (SHM).
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, particularly those studying wave mechanics and oscillatory motion, as well as educators and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of harmonic oscillation.
The graph would change from sine to cosine, (remember, that sin(x+π)=cosx)CrazyNeutrino said:If phi had a value, what would the shm graph look like? Or how would it change from Acos(wT)?
It never started as cosine, it's allways either sine or cosine or somethin in between. It's like you move the cosine a bit to the right and if you move it by π/2 you get sine! SO all phi determines is the initial position!CrazyNeutrino said:so how could it change from sine if it doesn't start at sine?