Understanding Intensity and Amplitude of Physical Waves | School Physics UK

In summary, the link discusses the relationship between intensity, amplitude, and energy in physical waves. It explains how the energy of a wave is represented by the square of its amplitude, and how this applies to systems with sinusoidal dynamics. It also mentions the concept of total energy, which accounts for both kinetic and potential energy, and how it relates to amplitude. The conversation also briefly mentions a "yellow card" collector named Adam, and speculation about a potential limit on the number of "yellow cards" one can collect.
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  • #2
If you have a sinusoid as voltage and R, so the phase between Voltage and current is zero.
Then also I is sinusoidal.
The power P = V x I = V sin t x I sin t = VI sin^2 t.
 
  • #3
The energy of a physical system always accounts for the total energy, that is the sum of (total) kinetic energy and (total) potential energy. Kinetic energy is proportional to square of velocity. For a system that can be modeled as a vibrating spring (which is perhaps true for all sinusoidal dynamic system), the potential energy is proportional to square of displacement. That's the total energy must be proportional to square of its amplitude.
 
  • #4
I guess you are the type of "yellow card" collector Adam. I'm not sure if there is a maximum limit of the number collected.
 

FAQ: Understanding Intensity and Amplitude of Physical Waves | School Physics UK

What is intensity and amplitude of physical waves?

Intensity and amplitude are two important properties of physical waves. Intensity refers to the amount of energy carried by a wave and is measured in units of watts per square meter. Amplitude, on the other hand, refers to the maximum displacement of particles in a medium caused by a wave and is measured in units of meters.

What factors affect the intensity and amplitude of a physical wave?

The intensity and amplitude of a physical wave can be affected by several factors, including the amplitude of the source, the distance from the source, and the medium through which the wave travels. In general, the greater the amplitude of the source, the greater the intensity and amplitude of the wave. Similarly, the greater the distance from the source, the lower the intensity and amplitude of the wave. The type of medium also plays a role, as denser materials tend to have higher wave amplitudes and intensities.

How are intensity and amplitude related?

Intensity and amplitude are directly related to each other. This means that as the amplitude of a wave increases, the intensity also increases. This relationship is described by the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of a wave is proportional to the square of its amplitude. This means that if the amplitude of a wave is doubled, the intensity will increase by a factor of four.

How is the intensity of a wave measured?

The intensity of a wave can be measured using a device called a radiometer. This instrument consists of a small rotor with black and white vanes that are suspended in a vacuum. When the vanes are hit by a wave, they absorb the energy and begin to spin. The rate of rotation is directly proportional to the intensity of the wave, allowing for accurate measurements to be taken.

What is the difference between intensity and loudness?

Intensity and loudness are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different properties. Intensity is a physical property that measures the energy of a wave, while loudness is a perceptual property that measures the perceived sound level. In other words, intensity is a measurable quantity, while loudness is a subjective experience that can vary from person to person.

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