When a string vibrates, we can describe some property of a single particle of th

Question

When a string vibrates, we can describe some property of a single particle of the string with a cosine wave function, y= Acos(2pi(x/lambda-t/T)). The y could represent the (transverse) displacement of the particle, or the tension acting on it (and therefore it's acceleration), or its speed (transverse motion). But we can use that same general wave equation to describe the motion of a single air molecule as a traveling wave passes. So, what properties could the cosine function be describing for a particle in such a LONGITUDINAL wave. There are are at least four properties.

Explanation / Answer

period (T) - is the time for one wave cycle (two pulses, or from crest to crest or trough to trough), in SI units of seconds (though it may be referred to as "seconds per cycle"). ......frequency (f) - the number of cycles in a unit of time. The SI unit of frequncy is the hertz (Hz) and 1 Hz = 1 cycle/s .... angular frequency (omega) - is 2pi times the frequency, in SI units of radians per second.... Phase difference

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