Two point sources produce waves in phase with the same amplitude and wavelength. The sources are a distance d apart. The distance from the right bisector to a point on the second nodal line is x2. The distance between the sources is cut in half. What is the new distance from the right bisector to the point on the second nodal line?

Question

Two point sources produce waves in phase with the same amplitude and wavelength. The sources are a distance d apart. The distance from the right bisector to a point on the second nodal line is x2. The distance between the sources is cut in half. What is the new distance from the right bisector to the point on the second nodal line?

1)1/2 x2
2)x2
3)2 x2
4)4 x2

Answer 1

Without a picture, .... I am not certain what is meant by "right bisector" And secondly "is cut in half"...from what orginally?

Answer 2

There is no picture given to me in order to solve this question. I think so bisector in this question line passing through the midpoint. Any idea what would be the answer

Answer 3

I have the same question. Can somone help?

@bobpursley

Answer 4

To answer this question, we need to understand the concept of interference in wave patterns produced by two point sources. Here's how we can approach it:

1. When two point sources produce waves, they create interference patterns, which include both constructive and destructive interference.
2. Constructive interference occurs when the waves from the two sources are in phase, resulting in an increased amplitude. This produces locations of maximum intensity called antinodal lines.
3. Destructive interference occurs when the waves from the two sources are out of phase, resulting in decreased or zero amplitude. This produces locations of minimum or zero intensity called nodal lines.
4. The distance between two adjacent nodal lines (nodal line to nodal line) is equal to half of the wavelength (λ/2) for constructive interference.

Now, let's apply this understanding to the given scenario:

1. Initially, the two point sources are distance d apart.
2. The distance from the right bisector to a point on the second nodal line is x2.
3. If we cut the distance between the sources in half, the new distance between them would be d/2.
4. For constructive interference, the distance between two adjacent nodal lines is equal to half of the wavelength (λ/2).
5. Since the wavelength remains the same, the new distance from the right bisector to the second nodal line would also be x2.

Therefore, the answer is option 2) x2.