Moderate

Two wave sources are oscillating in phase. Each source produces a wave of wavelength πœ†. The two waves from the sources meet at point 𝑋 with a phase difference of 90Β°.What is a possible difference in the distances from the two wave sources to point 𝑋?

Correct answer: B. πœ†/4

  • A. πœ†/8
  • B. πœ†/4
  • C. πœ†/2
  • D. πœ†

Explanation

The two given sources are in phase. A distance equal to the wavelength corresponds to a phase difference of 360, this means that they are in phase. When two things are in phase it infers that they have no phase difference.This shows us that a phase difference of 90 corresponds to a distance equal to πœ†/4.

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About Waves

Progressive waves transfer energy through oscillations, with wavelength, frequency, amplitude and wave speed related by v = fΞ»; 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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