The distance between two particles in a wave motion in the same phase is:
Correct answer: D. λ
- A. λ/4
- B. 3λ/4
- C. λ/2
- D. λ
Explanation
In wave motion, particles that are in the same phase are separated by a full wavelength. This means the phase difference between these particles is zero, or equivalently, a multiple of 360 degrees (2π radians). Therefore, the correct distance between two particles in the same phase is a full wavelength, λ. Options A (λ/4), B (3λ/4), and C (λ/2) represent fractional parts of a wavelength and correspond to phase differences of 90 degrees (π/2 radians), 270 degrees (3π/2 radians), and 180 degrees (π radians), respectively, indicating they are not in the same phase.
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About Waves
Progressive waves transfer energy through oscillations, with wavelength, frequency, amplitude and wave speed related by v = fλ; sound speed depends on the medium. Superposition produces interference and stationary waves in strings and organ pipes, while simple harmonic motion describes the oscillation itself and must be distinguished from wave propagation.
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