Difference between phase angles

In summary, a phase angle is a measurement used to describe the relationship between two waves or signals at a specific point in time. It is calculated by measuring the time difference between the waves and converting it into an angle. It differs from a phase shift, which refers to the change in position over time. Phase angles play a crucial role in determining the interference of waves, with in-phase waves creating constructive interference and out-of-phase waves causing destructive interference. Phase angles can be negative when the second wave is ahead of the first in the cycle.
  • #1
kostoglotov
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Homework Statement



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imgur: http://i.imgur.com/9ktFGSs.png

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


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I came up with both 150 and 210 as the difference between the phase angles. I chose 150.

If you draw the vectors and compare their angles, the angular difference between them could be either 150 or 210.

Can you choose either? If not, why did the text choose 210?
 
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  • #2
Is it 210 ahead or 150 behind? Both are correct. If they are 180 degrees apart, does it lead by 180 or lag by 180 ? It is impossible to make such a distinction. Both answers are correct.
 
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FAQ: Difference between phase angles

What is a phase angle?

A phase angle is a measurement used in fields such as physics and engineering to describe the relationship between two waves or signals. It represents the difference in the position, or phase, of one wave compared to another at a specific point in time.

How is a phase angle calculated?

A phase angle is typically calculated by measuring the difference in time between two waves at a specific point. This time difference is then converted into an angle measurement, usually in degrees or radians.

What is the difference between phase angle and phase shift?

While both terms refer to the relationship between two waves, a phase angle typically refers to the difference in position at a specific point in time, whereas a phase shift refers to the difference in position over a period of time. In other words, a phase angle is a snapshot of the relationship between two waves, while a phase shift is the change in this relationship over time.

How do phase angles affect the interference of waves?

Phase angles play a crucial role in determining the interference of waves. When two waves are in phase, meaning they have the same phase angle, they will constructively interfere and create a larger wave. On the other hand, when two waves are out of phase, they will destructively interfere and cancel each other out.

Can phase angles be negative?

Yes, phase angles can be negative. This occurs when the second wave is ahead of the first wave in the cycle, creating a negative time difference. In terms of angle measurement, a negative phase angle can be represented as a clockwise rotation from the reference position.

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