Find smallest value of y for constructive interference

In summary, to find the smallest value of y for constructive interference, one must identify the conditions under which waves reinforce each other. This occurs when the path difference between the waves is an integer multiple of the wavelength (nλ, where n is a whole number). By applying this principle to the geometry of the setup, one can derive the specific position y that satisfies this condition, typically involving the wavelengths and distances involved in the interference pattern.
  • #1
hraghav
48
5
Homework Statement
Two speakers are located a distance 2d apart along the x-axis, where the origin is located at the midpoint between the two speakers. This is shown in the image below. The speakers emit sound with wavelength λ=1.34m. The distance from the origin to either of the speakers is d=6.74m. When considering locations of constructive and destructive interference along a line parallel to the y-axis in front of one of the speakers, as shown in blue, the distance between the location and each of the speakers is R1 = y and R2 = sqrt( y^2+(2d)^2) for the right and left speakers, respectively. If a listener were a very far distance away from the speakers, the difference between the distances from the two speakers would be so small that it might as well be zero, and thus the listener would experience constructive interference.

What is the smallest value y from the right speaker in which constructive interference occurs?
Relevant Equations
\sqrt{y^2+\left(2\cdot 6.74\right)^2}\ -\ y=\ λ
I took the d = 6.74 m, n = 1 as we need the smallest y and λ=1.34m. I substituted this in the equation and am getting 67.1323 m as my final answer but this is not correct. Could someone please let me know where am I making an error

Screenshot 2024-07-25 at 11.55.10 AM.png


Screenshot 2024-07-25 at 11.55.39 AM.png
 
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  • #2
Hi,

What's the phase difference for ##y=0## ?

##\ ##
 
  • #3
hraghav said:
Could someone please let me know where am I making an error
You asserted that ##n=1##. Why does that value for ##n## give the smallest value of ##y##?
 
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  • #4
kuruman said:
You asserted that ##n=1##. Why does that value for ##n## give the smallest value of ##y##?
Thanks I got it now
 
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