A wave traveling on a string is described by the expression $y ( x , t ) = 5.0 \cos \left( \frac { \pi } { 3 } x + \frac { \pi } { 6 } t - \frac { 3 \pi } { 2 } \right)$ cm where $x$ is measured in meters and $t$ in seconds. The phase difference at the same moment in time between two points on the string 25.0 cm apart is
A) $\pi$ /12 rad.
B) $\pi$ /4 rad.
C) $\pi$ /3 rad.
D) $\pi$ rad.
E) 2 $\pi$ rad.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The phase difference is given by the coefficient of $x$ in the argument of the cosine function:$$\frac{\pi}{3} \text{ rad/m} \times 0.25 \text{ m} = \frac{\pi}{12} \text{ rad}$$

A Wave Traveling on a String Is Described by the Expression