Two harmonic waves travelling in opposite directions interfere to produce a standing wave described by y = 3 sin (2x) cos 5t where x is in m and t is in s. What is the wavelength of the interfering waves?
A)3.14 m
B)1.00 m
C)6.28 m
D)12.0 m
E)2.00 m

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The wavelength of a standing wave is given by lambda = 2*pi/k, where k is the wave number. The wave number is given by k = 2*pi/lambda. In this case, the wave number is k = 2*pi/2 = pi. Therefore, the wavelength is lambda = 2*pi/pi = 2 m.

Two Harmonic Waves Travelling in Opposite Directions Interfere to Produce