What is phase
- 2. Getting Started • Phase can be defined as the argument of a sine or cosine function (in a harmonic wave) • There are several formula representations of this, however the intention of this learning object is to solidify your understanding of the basic concept first • The phase of a wave function is essentially a means of locating ‘where on a wave you are’
- 3. Defining • Phase is reported using Radians • An arbitrary ‘start’ point in your wave must first be defined • This point is used as reference • Use point 1 as reference • Now labels to other points can be given
- 4. Phase difference • This is (as you would assume) the DIFFERNCE in phase between two waves Denoted as ∆ɸ QUESTION 1 What is the phase difference (in radians) between the red and blue wave (shown as theta in the picture)?
- 5. Solution 1 • The easiest way to determine this is by setting two different reference points (where the two waves have the same value) • Lets pick the origin for the red wave and ∏/2 for the blue wave (at these points both wave functions are crossing the x axis and equal) • This allows you to see that the difference in phase is simply ∏/2
- 6. Materials Cited • http://www.3phasepower.org/images/3PhasePowerWaveF.png • http://apollo.lsc.vsc.edu/classes/remote/lecture_notes/radar/dopple r/graphics/wave_phase.free.gif