Find wavelength for a standing wave

In summary, the problem involves two sinusoidal waves with identical wavelengths and amplitudes traveling in opposite directions along a string with a speed of 10 cm/s. The time interval between instants when the string is flat is 0.50 seconds, which leads to a period of 1 second and a frequency of 0.5 Hz. This is because a sine function takes the zero value twice during a period, and the time between these zero values is half of the total period.
  • #1
jwxie
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Homework Statement



Two sinusoidal waves with identical wavelengths and amplitudes travel in opposite directions along a string with a speed of 10 cm/s. If the time interval between instants when the string is flat is 0.50 s, what is the wavelength of the waves?

Homework Equations



v = w/k = lamda * frequency

The Attempt at a Solution


The solution gives T/2 = 0.50 and T = 1 s
Why do we have to multiple by two? In fact, if I didn't take twice the given time, i would have this
frequency = 1/T = 0.5 still which doesn't make sense...

How does "time interval between instants" implies twices? I know between is used when comparing two things. But I just thought that 0.5 was the time the string stayed flat.
Thank you very much.
 
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  • #2
A sine function takes the zero value twice during a period T. (sin(0)=sin(pi)=0) If the time interval between successive zero values is 0.50 s the whole time period T is twice as long: 1.00 s.

ehild
 

What is a standing wave?

A standing wave is a type of wave that appears to be stationary, with no net movement of energy. It is created by the interference of two waves with the same frequency, traveling in opposite directions.

How is wavelength related to standing waves?

The wavelength of a standing wave is the distance between two consecutive points that are in phase, or have the same amount of displacement from their equilibrium position. It is directly related to the frequency of the wave, and can be calculated using the formula λ = v/f, where v is the speed of the wave and f is the frequency.

What factors affect the wavelength of a standing wave?

The wavelength of a standing wave is primarily affected by the length of the medium in which it is traveling and the frequency of the wave. Additionally, the properties of the medium such as its density and elasticity can also play a role in determining the wavelength.

How do you find the wavelength for a standing wave?

To find the wavelength of a standing wave, you must first determine the frequency of the wave and the speed at which it is traveling. These values can then be used in the formula λ = v/f to calculate the wavelength. It is important to note that the wavelength of a standing wave is always half the length of the medium in which it is traveling.

Why is it important to know the wavelength of a standing wave?

Knowing the wavelength of a standing wave is important because it helps us understand the properties of the medium in which the wave is traveling. It also allows us to calculate other important parameters, such as the energy and momentum of the wave. Additionally, understanding the wavelength can help us predict and control the behavior of standing waves in various applications, such as music and engineering.

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