To find the wavelength of the standing wave, we can use the formula:
λ = 2L/n
where λ represents the wavelength, L is the distance between the two people, and n is the number of nodal points (also known as the number of segments or half-wavelengths).
In this case, the two people are 6 meters apart, and there are 5 nodal points. Plugging these values into the formula:
λ = 2 * 6 m / 5
λ = 12 m / 5
λ = 2.4 m
Therefore, the wavelength of the standing wave is 2.4 meters.
A standing wave is produced when two waves with the same frequency and amplitude travel in opposite directions and interfere constructively and destructively. In the case described, the two people are creating waves that travel towards each other and then reflect back. The waves interfere with each other, resulting in the formation of nodal points and antinodal points.
Nodal points are locations where the waves interfere destructively, causing the displacement of the medium to be zero. These points appear as stationary points in the standing wave pattern. The distance between nodal points represents half a wavelength.
Antinodal points, on the other hand, are locations where the waves interfere constructively, causing maximum displacement. These points exhibit the largest oscillations in the standing wave pattern.
The standing wave is formed because the original waves and the reflected waves interfere in such a way that they create regions of constructive and destructive interference, resulting in a stable pattern of nodes and antinodes.