Find the equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave

In summary, the conversation discusses a transverse traveling wave described by a specific equation and its properties. Part a) involves proving that the equation satisfies the one-dimensional wave equation and determining the wave speed and direction of propagation. Part b) asks to use the results from part a) to show the equation of motion for a particle at a fixed x.
  • #1
TheTourist
25
0
A transverse traveling wave is described by
y(x,t)=0.6e2x-5tcos(5t-2x)​
for x and y measured in cm and t in s
a) Show that y(x,t) satisfies the one-dimensional wave equation, and use this to deduce the wave speed. What is the direction of propagation?
b)USe the work from part (a) to show that the equation of motion for a particle at a fixed x is
a + 10v + 50 y = 0​

Note: a is the second partial derivitive of y w.r.t t, v is the first partial derivitive of y w.r.t. t.

I have done part a) fine but am at a complete loss as to what to do in part b), and it is only worth 2 marks compared to the 8 for part a)
 
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  • #2
Basically they just want you to use your expressions for [itex]a=\frac{\partial^2 y}{\partial t^2}[/itex], and [itex]v=\frac{\partial y}{\partial t}[/itex]...that you calculated in part (a) to show that [itex]a+10v+50y=0[/itex]
 

FAQ: Find the equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave

What is a fixed particle in a wave?

A fixed particle in a wave refers to a particle that is held in place and does not move as the wave passes through it. This is in contrast to a free particle, which is able to move with the wave.

What is the equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave?

The equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave is given by x(t) = A sin(ωt + φ), where x(t) is the displacement of the particle at time t, A is the amplitude of the wave, ω is the angular frequency, and φ is the phase angle.

How is the equation of motion derived?

The equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave is derived using the principles of simple harmonic motion. This involves considering the restoring force and acceleration of the particle as it is displaced from its equilibrium position by the wave.

What factors affect the equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave?

The factors that affect the equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave include the amplitude, frequency, and phase of the wave, as well as the mass and properties of the particle itself.

Can the equation of motion be used for all types of waves?

Yes, the equation of motion for a fixed particle in a wave can be used for all types of waves, including mechanical waves (such as sound and water waves), electromagnetic waves (such as light and radio waves), and even quantum waves (such as particle waves).

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