0
$\begingroup$

An ultrasonic wave is sent through a dispersive medium. That means the waves move at different frequencies with different phase velocities. If this were measured in the frequency spectrum, would the dispersion (or wave speed) have an influence on the amplitude? Is there a connection?

$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

0
$\begingroup$

Strictly speaking, dispersion does not affect the magnitude of the spectrum, it only affects the phase (associated with the phase speed). However, if you have a non-trivially dispersive medium it is often the case that you will also have absorption of some sort (in fact, this is required by causality through the Kramers-Kronig relations), and that absorption will affect the magnitude.

$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.