where U>0 is a constant. Find the dispersion relation for waves of frequency ω and wavenumber k. Sketch a graph showing both the phase velocity c(k) and the group velocity cg(k), and state whether wave crests move faster or slower than a wave packet.
Suppose that ϕ(x,0) is real and given by a Fourier transform as
ϕ(x,0)=∫−∞∞A(k)eikxdk
Use the method of stationary phase to obtain an approximation for ϕ(Vt,t) for fixed V>U and large t. If, in addition, ϕ(x,0)=ϕ(−x,0), deduce an approximation for the sequence of times at which ϕ(Vt,t)=0.
What can be said about ϕ(Vt,t) if V<U ? [Detailed calculation is not required in this case.]
[You may assume that ∫−∞∞e−au2du=aπ for Re(a)⩾0,a=0. ]