Two waves are described by y₁ = 6 cos 180t and y₂ = 6 cos 186t, (both in meters) .
With what angular frequency does the maximum amplitude of the resultant wave vary with time?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The maximum amplitude of the resultant wave varies with time due to the phenomenon known as "beating." The beat frequency (or angular frequency in this context) is given by the difference between the angular frequencies of the two waves. Thus, it is |180 - 186| = 6 rad/s. However, since the question asks for the frequency with which the maximum amplitude varies, which happens twice in a beat cycle, the correct answer is half of 6 rad/s, which is 3 rad/s.

Two Waves Are Described by Y1 = 6 Cos 180t

Two Waves Are Described by Y₁ = 6 Cos 180t