What exactly determines the energy of a wave? the intensity? or the frequency?

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SUMMARY

The energy of a wave is determined by both its frequency and amplitude, depending on the type of wave. For mechanical waves, such as sound waves, the energy is primarily influenced by amplitude, as higher amplitudes correspond to greater energy transfer. In contrast, for electromagnetic waves like photons, energy is directly proportional to frequency. The discussion highlights that while intensity is related to amplitude, it does not negate the presence of energy in stationary waves, where amplitudes may cancel out but do not result in zero energy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, including concepts of amplitude and frequency.
  • Familiarity with the principles of stationary waves and superposition.
  • Basic knowledge of mechanical waves versus electromagnetic waves.
  • Knowledge of the relationship between intensity and amplitude in wave physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between amplitude and energy in mechanical waves.
  • Explore the concept of wave superposition and its effects on wave behavior.
  • Learn about the energy-frequency relationship in electromagnetic waves.
  • Investigate the mathematical representation of wave intensity and its implications.
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Students studying physics at the AS level, educators teaching wave mechanics, and anyone interested in the principles of energy transfer in different types of waves.

mutineer123
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I am taking AS level Physics rite now, and wanted to know what exactly determines the energy of a wave. Well since I have recently learn of stationary waves(sound waves) being standing. I know that they are formed by the superimposition of the reflected waves on the incident waves. This causes the amplitude to cancel out, and become zero. So intuitively I guess the frequency decides a waves energy, because if intensity did, then in a stationary wave, the amplitudes canceling out would make the intensity nil as well(I=κA6^2), so this will make the sound stop, which it clearly does not.
So is this reasoning right?
 
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It depends on the context actually. In terms of mechanical waves, for example a water wave ripple in a pond, more energy is carried by the wave for high amplitudes. Photons are another type of wave, but they carry energy in their frequency. A sound wave is a mechanical wave, and so the amplitude determines the energy of the wave.
 

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