Need help with taveling wave sketching

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In summary, the conversation is about a forum user seeking help with graphing an electric field wave at different points in time. They provide the formula for the wave and discuss the values of w and k, as well as how to graph the wave using different values for t/T.
  • #1
stawbeegirl
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hi everyone,
i am stuck working on this problem and thought i'd post it to the forum

if an electric field wave is given by E = 50cos(10^8*t + k*z)

what does the wave look like at t=0, T/4, T/2 and T (T is period)

i know that w = 10^8 here and that k = w/2Pi

i'm killing myself trying to graph this wave at those points in time. please help! :confused: :confused:
 
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  • #2
Actually, k = w/c, c = 3 X 10^8.
And w/2Pi =1/T or T = 2Pi/w .

k is a wave-vector or an inverse wavelegth. w is a frequency or inverse time. Their dimensions are completely different.
 
  • #3
yes you're right. that's what i have written. k = 1/3 (w/c)

to graph do i just plug in 2Pi/w (or multiple of) for t and 1/3 for k?
 
  • #4
You have

E = 50 cos (wt - kz), where w = 2Pi/T, k = w/c = 1/3

So E = 50 cos (2Pi*(t/T) - z/3)

You are given different values for t/T, ie. 0, 1/4, 1/2, 1. If you plug these in you get E vs. z
 

1. How do I sketch a traveling wave?

To sketch a traveling wave, you first need to determine the wave's amplitude, wavelength, and frequency. Then, plot the wave's shape using a sine or cosine function and label the x and y axes accordingly. Finally, draw the wave moving in the direction of propagation at the given speed.

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Sketching traveling waves helps visualize and understand the behavior of a wave, including its amplitude, wavelength, speed, and direction of propagation. It also allows for better analysis and prediction of how the wave will interact with its surroundings.

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