Question

So if a wave equation is Asin(kx−ωt+ϕ) then how can you calculate what the phase would be? From the graph, it is visible to see where the graph has shifted but just by numerical values how could you tell?

Answer 1

To calculate the phase of a wave numerically, subtract the values of kx - ωt at two different points in time or space.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phase of a wave can be calculated using the equation y(x, t) = Asin(kx − ωt + ϕ), where ϕ represents the phase. To determine the phase numerically, you need to compare the values of kx - ωt at two different points in time or space. By subtracting the two values, you can find the phase shift.

For example, let's say at one point in time, kx - ωt = 0, and at another point, kx - ωt = 2π. The phase shift would be 2π - 0 = 2π. This means the wave has shifted by one full cycle.

Remember, the phase shift can also be observed graphically as a horizontal shift of the wave on the graph.