Which wave has the largest energy density, a-wave or u-wave?

In summary, for electromagnetic waves, the higher frequency wave will generally have more energy, while for water and sound waves, the energy will depend on the maximum kinetic energy of the medium and will be greater for higher frequency waves. However, the total energy may also depend on the duration of the wave.
  • #1
munky99999
202
0
If 2 waves have the exact same intensity/magnitude. But one's frequency(lets call this a-wave) is double the other's frequency(u-wave). Which has the largest total energy? Or does it matter what type of wave it is?
 
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  • #2
Generally the higher frequency wave will have more energy and, yes, the details depend on the type of wave.
 
  • #3
munky99999 said:
If 2 waves have the exact same intensity/magnitude. But one's frequency(lets call this a-wave) is double the other's frequency(u-wave). Which has the largest total energy? Or does it matter what type of wave it is?

For electromagnetic waves, the intensity is [tex]
\frac{E_{rms}^2}{c \mu_0}
[/tex]

so the energy is independent of frequency as long as c and u0 are independent of frequency.

However, as the frequency goes up, the energy will arrive in larger "packets" given by E=h*f.

I don't know the equations for water or sound waves offhand.
 
  • #4
For water and sound waves the energy will be related to the maximum kinetic energy of the medium which is clearly greater for higher frequency waves than lower given equal amplitudes.
 
  • #5
munky99999 said:
If 2 waves have the exact same intensity/magnitude. But one's frequency(lets call this a-wave) is double the other's frequency(u-wave). Which has the largest total energy? Or does it matter what type of wave it is?

Strictly speaking, you should probably be speaking of energy density. If the low frequency waves lasts much longer, it could have more "total energy". But I think your point came across.
 

FAQ: Which wave has the largest energy density, a-wave or u-wave?

What is "Energy Wave Correlation"?

"Energy Wave Correlation" refers to a phenomenon in which the energy levels of particles or waves are related or connected in some way. This can occur in various systems, such as in quantum mechanics or in the study of electromagnetic waves.

How is "Energy Wave Correlation" measured?

The measurement of "Energy Wave Correlation" depends on the specific system being studied. In quantum mechanics, it can be measured through techniques such as quantum entanglement or the measurement of wave function collapse. In the study of electromagnetic waves, it can be measured through techniques such as calculating the correlation between different frequencies or amplitudes.

What causes "Energy Wave Correlation"?

The underlying cause of "Energy Wave Correlation" depends on the specific system being studied. In quantum mechanics, it is often attributed to fundamental principles such as particle-wave duality or the uncertainty principle. In the study of electromagnetic waves, it can be caused by factors such as interference or resonance.

What are the applications of studying "Energy Wave Correlation"?

Studying "Energy Wave Correlation" can have various applications in different fields. In quantum mechanics, it can help us understand the behavior of particles and develop new technologies such as quantum computing. In the study of electromagnetic waves, it can aid in the development of communication and sensing technologies.

What are the challenges in studying "Energy Wave Correlation"?

One of the main challenges in studying "Energy Wave Correlation" is the complex and often counterintuitive nature of quantum mechanics. Additionally, in the study of electromagnetic waves, it can be challenging to accurately measure and manipulate the various factors that contribute to correlation. Further research and advancements in technology are needed to fully understand and utilize "Energy Wave Correlation".

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