Question:

Given below are some functions of x and t to represent the displacement (transverse or longitudinal) of an elastic wave. State which of these represent (i) a travelling wave, (ii) a stationary wave or (iii) none at all: 

(a) y = 2 cos (3x) sin (10t) 

(b) \(y=2\sqrt{x-vt}\)

(c) y = 3 sin (5x – 0.5t) + 4 cos (5x – 0.5t) 

(d) y = cos x sin t + cos 2x sin 2t

Updated On: Nov 2, 2023
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Solution and Explanation

The given equation represents a stationary wave because the harmonic terms kx and ωt appear separately in the equation.

The given equation does not contain any harmonic term. Therefore, it does not represent either a travelling wave or a stationary wave.

The given equation represents a travelling wave as the harmonic terms kx and ωt ate in the combination of kx – ωt

The given equation represents a stationary wave because the harmonic terms kx and ωt appear separately in the equation. This equation actually represents the superposition of two stationary waves.

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Concepts Used:

Waves

Waves are a disturbance through which the energy travels from one point to another. Most acquainted are surface waves that tour on the water, but sound, mild, and the movement of subatomic particles all exhibit wavelike properties. inside the most effective waves, the disturbance oscillates periodically (see periodic movement) with a set frequency and wavelength.

Types of Waves:

Transverse Waves -

Waves in which the medium moves at right angles to the direction of the wave.

Examples of transverse waves:

  • Water waves (ripples of gravity waves, not sound through water)
  • Light waves
  • S-wave earthquake waves
  • Stringed instruments
  • Torsion wave

The high point of a transverse wave is a crest. The low part is a trough.

Longitudinal Wave -

A longitudinal wave has the movement of the particles in the medium in the same dimension as the direction of movement of the wave.

Examples of longitudinal waves:

  • Sound waves
  • P-type earthquake waves
  • Compression wave