Conceptual Physics: Frequency

In summary, frequency in conceptual physics is the number of cycles or repetitions of a periodic motion that occur in a given unit of time. It is inversely related to wavelength, meaning that as frequency increases, wavelength decreases and vice versa. Frequency and period are two ways of measuring the same concept, with frequency being the number of cycles per second and period being the time for one complete cycle. Frequency also affects the pitch of a sound, with higher frequency corresponding to a higher pitch and lower frequency corresponding to a lower pitch. However, frequency does not directly affect the speed of an object, as the object's velocity is determined by its speed and direction of motion.
  • #1
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You let an empty suitcase swing to and fro at its natural frequency. If the case were filled with books, would the natural frequency be lower, greater, or the same as before?

I thought that the frequency would be greater because there is more weight to push the suitcase back and forth. Is this right?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF.

In what way is the mass of a pendulum related to frequency?
 
  • #3


Yes, you are correct. The natural frequency of an object is determined by its mass and stiffness. Adding more books to the suitcase increases its mass, which in turn increases its natural frequency. This means that the suitcase will swing back and forth at a faster rate with the added weight of the books compared to when it was empty. This is because the added mass requires more force to move, resulting in a higher frequency of oscillation.
 

1. What is frequency in conceptual physics?

Frequency in conceptual physics refers to the number of cycles or repetitions of a periodic motion that occur in a given unit of time. It is typically measured in hertz (Hz), which represents the number of cycles per second.

2. How is frequency related to wavelength?

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related. This means that as frequency increases, wavelength decreases and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation: speed of light = frequency x wavelength.

3. What is the difference between frequency and period?

Frequency and period are two different ways of measuring the same concept. Frequency is the number of cycles per second, while period is the time it takes for one complete cycle to occur. They are inversely related, meaning that a higher frequency corresponds to a shorter period and vice versa.

4. How does frequency affect the pitch of a sound?

Frequency is directly related to the pitch of a sound. Higher frequency corresponds to a higher pitch, while lower frequency corresponds to a lower pitch. This is because the faster the vibrations of a sound wave, the higher the pitch of the sound.

5. Can frequency affect the speed of an object?

No, frequency does not directly affect the speed of an object. The speed of an object is determined by its velocity, which is a combination of its speed and direction of motion. However, frequency can indirectly affect the speed of an object if it is related to the object's acceleration or deceleration.

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