What Is the Phase Constant of the Wave?

[smpolisetti]

Homework Statement

If the vertical axis blocks are 8 cm each and the horizontal axis blocks are 3 s each, what is the amplitude (in cm) of the wave shown in the diagram

http://i54.tinypic.com/2ilngr9.gif

What is the phase constant (in degrees) of the oscillation in the diagram?

Homework Equations

Ø = wt + Ø0

The Attempt at a Solution

I have nooooo idea where to start

I got that w is 0.35, but I don't know about Ø or Ø0

 

[kuruman]

I have nooooo idea where to start

Perhaps you could start by posting a diagram that is accessible and is not at a site that needs your userID and password.

 

[smpolisetti]

Perhaps you could start by posting a diagram that is accessible and is not at a site that needs your userID and password.

Sorry! I didn't realize it required a password

 

[kuruman]

Excellent. The phase is the argument of a sine or cosine. You could write the expression that you are seeking in two ways,

1. x(t) = A sin(ωt+φ)
2. x(t) = A cos(ωt+φ)

Which of the two do you think the question wants you to use? You could use either one, each expression will have the same A and ω, but different φ. So if you are required to give an answer to a computer program, you have to know which expression it expects.