Deriving optical- and acoustical branches

In summary, Kittel, in his book "Introduction to Solid State Physics", derives the roots for the optical and acoustical branches in the equation M_1 M_2 \omega^4-2C(M_1+M_2)\omega^2+2C^2(1-cos(Ka))=0. These roots are given by \omega^2=2C(\frac{1}{M_1}+\frac{1}{M_2}) and \omega^2=\frac{\frac{1}{2}C}{M_1+M_2}K^2 a^2. To find these roots, Kittel uses the trigonometric identity ##\cos(Ka)
  • #1
Elekko
17
0
On the book "Introduction to Solid State Physics" by Kittel, on page 98 he derived the roots for optical and acoustical branches for the equation:

[tex]M_1 M_2 \omega^4-2C(M_1+M_2)\omega^2+2C^2(1-cos(Ka))=0[/tex]

where the roots are:

[tex]\omega^2=2C(\frac{1}{M_1}+\frac{1}{M_2})[/tex] and
[tex]\omega^2=\frac{\frac{1}{2}C}{M_1+M_2}K^2 a^2[/tex]

I'm wondering how he actually found these roots since he skipped the details? He only mentions the trigonometric identity can be set to zero... how are the roots found?
 
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  • #2
Note that these are the roots only for the limiting case of ##Ka << 1##. As Kittel states, in this case you can let ##\cos(Ka) \approx 1-\frac{1}{2}K^2a^2##.

Make this approximation and note that you have a quadratic equation in ##\omega^2##.
 

FAQ: Deriving optical- and acoustical branches

What is the difference between optical and acoustical branches?

Optical branches refer to the movement of light waves through a material, while acoustical branches refer to the movement of sound waves through a material. In other words, optical branches involve the study of light and its interactions with matter, while acoustical branches involve the study of sound and its propagation through a medium.

How are optical and acoustical branches derived?

Optical and acoustical branches are derived through the use of mathematical equations and principles, such as Maxwell's equations for optics and the wave equation for acoustics. These equations help to describe the behavior of light and sound waves in different materials and can be used to predict their properties.

What is the importance of studying optical and acoustical branches?

Studying optical and acoustical branches is important for a variety of reasons. It can help us understand the behavior of light and sound in different materials, which is useful for developing new technologies and improving existing ones. Additionally, it allows us to better understand the natural world and how different materials interact with energy.

What are some practical applications of optical and acoustical branches?

Optical branches have numerous practical applications, such as in the development of optical fibers for telecommunications, lasers for medical and industrial uses, and optical sensors for various industries. Acoustical branches also have many practical uses, including in ultrasound imaging, noise cancellation technology, and the design of musical instruments.

How do optical and acoustical branches relate to each other?

While optical and acoustical branches study different types of waves, they are closely related in terms of their underlying principles and mathematical equations. In fact, some materials exhibit both optical and acoustical properties, and the study of these materials can provide valuable insights into the relationship between the two branches of science.

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