What is the Velocity of a Wave Pulse Described by y(x,t)=De^-(Bx-Ct)^2?

  • Thread starter Thread starter rizardon
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Pulse Speed Wave
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The wave pulse described by the function y(x,t)=De^-(Bx-Ct)^2 has a speed determined by the constants B and C. By rewriting the equation in the form y=f(x+vt), it is established that the velocity of the wave pulse is given by the formula v=C/B. This approach is confirmed as correct, providing a clear method for determining wave speed in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave equations and their forms
  • Familiarity with exponential functions and their properties
  • Knowledge of constants in wave mechanics
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of wave equations in physics
  • Learn about the implications of wave speed in different media
  • Explore the relationship between wave parameters and their graphical representations
  • Investigate other forms of wave functions and their characteristics
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching wave mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding wave behavior and mathematical modeling of physical phenomena.

rizardon
Messages
19
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A wave pulse is described by the function y(x,t)=De^-(Bx-Ct)^2, where B, C and D are all positive constants. What is the speed of this wave?


Homework Equations


y=f(x+vt)


The Attempt at a Solution


y=De^-(Bx-Ct)^2 is of the form y=f(x+vt)
however there is a B in front of x so I factor the B out and get
-(Bx-Ct)^2 = -B^2(x-Ct/B)^2
so the velocity is C/B
Is this the right approach?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
yes.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
25
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K