Phase of the wave

Definition

The phase of a wave describes the position of a point in time on a waveform cycle. It is usually measured in degrees or radians and can indicate the state of oscillation at any given moment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phase can be represented mathematically as $\theta = \omega t + \phi$, where $\omega$ is the angular frequency, $t$ is time, and $\phi$ is the phase constant.
2. Two waves with a phase difference of 180 degrees (or $\pi$ radians) are said to be in antiphase, meaning they cancel each other out when superimposed.
3. In constructive interference, waves are in phase or have a phase difference that is a multiple of 360 degrees (or $2\pi$ radians).
4. Phase shift refers to the change in phase between two points along the wave or between two different waves.
5. Understanding phase is crucial for analyzing phenomena like standing waves, beats, and resonance.

Review Questions

• What does it mean for two waves to be 'in phase'?
• How do you mathematically represent the phase of a wave?
• What happens when two waves are out of phase by 180 degrees?

Related terms

Wavelength:

The distance between consecutive crests or troughs in a wave.

Frequency:

The number of wave cycles that pass a given point per unit time, typically measured in Hertz (Hz).

Amplitude:

The maximum displacement from equilibrium position in an oscillating system.