[Waves] Standing waves problem (possibly )

In summary, to find the mass of the A-string on a piano with a length of 38.9cm and tension of 667-N, we can use the equation λ = vT (where λ is wavelength, v is speed of propagation, and T is tension) to find that the wavelength is 0.778m. Then, using the equation μ = mass/length, we can find that the mass is 0.00569kg. Finally, using the equation v = √(F/μ) (where F is force and μ is mass per length), we can determine that the mass of the A-string is 0.0022kg.
  • #1
hiuting
23
0

Homework Statement


The A-string (440Hz) on a piano is 38.9cm long and is clamped tightly at both ends. If the string is under 667-N tension, what is its mass?

Homework Equations


[tex]\lambda[/tex] = vT
[tex]\mu[/tex] = mass/length
v = [tex]\sqrt{F/\mu}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't really know which equations to useI don't know if it's right
For fundamental harmonics, L = [tex]\lambda[/tex]/2
so 0.389m = [tex]\lambda[/tex]/2
[tex]\lambda[/tex] = 0.778m
[tex]\lambda[/tex] = vT
0.778 = [tex]\sqrt{F/\mu}[/tex] (1/440Hz)
0.778 = [tex]\sqrt{667/\mu}[/tex] (1/440Hz)
[tex]\mu[/tex] = 0.00569 = mass / 0.389m
mass = 0.0022kg
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Your third equation is incorrect. The square root of F/μ is the speed of propagation v, not the wavelength.
 
  • #3
oh right. correction!
 

1. What is a standing wave?

A standing wave is a type of wave pattern that occurs when two waves with the same frequency and amplitude travel in opposite directions and interfere with each other. This results in a wave pattern that appears to be standing still, hence the name "standing wave".

2. What causes standing waves?

Standing waves are caused by the interference of two waves with the same frequency and amplitude traveling in opposite directions. This interference creates nodes (points of no displacement) and antinodes (points of maximum displacement) along the wave pattern.

3. How do you solve a standing wave problem?

To solve a standing wave problem, you will need to know the frequency, wavelength, and speed of the waves involved. From there, you can use the formula f = n(v/2L) to determine the possible frequencies (n) of standing waves in a given medium with a certain length (L) and speed (v). You can also use the formula v = fλ to calculate the wavelength (λ) of the standing wave.

4. What are some real-life examples of standing waves?

Standing waves can be observed in many natural phenomena, such as ocean waves bouncing off a cliff, vibrations in a guitar string, and sound waves in a closed pipe. They are also used in various technologies, such as microwave ovens, where standing waves are created to evenly distribute heat throughout the food.

5. How are standing waves different from other types of waves?

Standing waves are different from other types of waves because they do not travel in a single direction like most waves. Instead, they occur when two waves interfere with each other, resulting in a wave pattern that appears to be standing still. Additionally, standing waves have distinct nodes and antinodes, while other types of waves do not.

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