Can beats be created by two waves with different amplitudes?

In summary, beats can be created by two waves with different amplitudes, with the resulting beat having an amplitude equal to the difference between the two waves. The amplitude of the waves does not affect the beat frequency, which is determined by the difference in frequency between the two waves. Two waves with the same amplitude will not create beats, and the loudness of the resulting beat is determined by the amplitude of the original waves. Beats cannot be created by two waves with the same frequency; there must be a difference in frequency for beats to occur.
  • #1
salsero
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Can beats be created by two waves with different amplitudes? How will they look like?
 
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  • #2
Beats are created when two waves have slightly different frequencies. The amplitudes are not critical in making beats, however.

The amplitude of the resulting beats is the sum of the two waves. In other words, if one wave has maximum value 2 and one has maximum value 1, the maximum value of the combined wave will be 3.

The minimum of the resulting beats is always zero, since the two waves will always cancel at some points.

- Warren
 

1. Can beats be created by two waves with different amplitudes?

Yes, beats can be created by two waves with different amplitudes. In fact, the amplitude of the resulting beat will be equal to the difference in amplitude between the two waves.

2. How does the amplitude of the waves affect the beat frequency?

The amplitude of the waves does not directly affect the beat frequency. The beat frequency is determined by the difference in frequency between the two waves.

3. Can two waves with the same amplitude create beats?

No, two waves with the same amplitude will not create beats. In order for beats to occur, there must be a difference in frequency between the two waves.

4. What determines the loudness of the resulting beat?

The loudness of the resulting beat is determined by the amplitude of the two original waves. The greater the difference in amplitude between the waves, the louder the resulting beat will be.

5. Can beats be created by two waves with the same frequency?

No, beats cannot be created by two waves with the same frequency. In order for beats to occur, there must be a difference in frequency between the two waves.

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