Amplitude at various points on a string

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a string vibrating in its third harmonic, with given parameters such as wave speed, frequency, and maximum amplitude at an antinode. Participants are tasked with calculating the amplitude at specific points along the string.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the standing wave equation A*sin(kx)sin(ωt) and question how to isolate the amplitude at various points. There is uncertainty about the role of time in the equation and how to interpret the maximum amplitude given.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on assuming the maximum amplitude is 0.4 cm and suggested setting sin(ωt) to 1 for maximum displacement. However, there remains confusion regarding the calculation of amplitudes at specific distances and the interpretation of the variables involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about whether negative amplitude values should be reported and the implications of using the standing wave equation without a specific time value.

forestmine
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Homework Statement



A string with both ends held fixed is vibrating in its third harmonic. The waves have a speed of 192m/s and a frequency of 240 Hz. The amplitude of the standing wave at an antinode is .4cm.

Calculate the amplitude at points ont he string a distance of (i) 40cm, (ii) 20cm, and (iii)10 cm from the left end of the string.

Homework Equations



A*sin(kx)sin(ωt)
k=2\pi/λ
λ=v/f

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm assuming I need to use the equation for the position along a wave, given as A*sin(kx)sin(ωt). I'm thinking I need to set it up so that my only unknown is A. I started by solving for λ and then k. From there, I can find ω. I'm not sure, however, how to continue without knowing my time t. Also, when it says that the amplitude of the standing wave is .4cm, does that entail my maximum amplitude, and therefore all of the amplitudes I come up with should be points within this max displacement? And even if I have a given t, I still don't quite understand how to use the standing wave equation. In this form in particular, its solution entails the position, so is it simply A*sin(kx)sin(ωt)=the position at those given conditions.

Any direction would be greatly appreciated.
 
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First you might come up with the proper k such that you get the wave in this link,

http://gbhsweb.glenbrook225.org/gbs/science/phys/mmedia/waves/harm3.html

I think you can assume .4cm = A, what else could it be?

I get .8m for lamda. Let sin(wt) = 1 and plug in your values of x.

Hope this helps.

Edit, if some values come back negative I'm not sure if they should be reported as positive or negative.
 
Last edited:
I also get .8 for λ.

But I still don't understand how to compute each of the amplitudes. I'm assuming I should use Asin(kx)sin(ωt), but if I plug in the given amplitude of .4 cm, then what variable am I solving for?

Also, I don't understand why sin(ωt) should be equal to 1.
 
forestmine said:
I also get .8 for λ.

But I still don't understand how to compute each of the amplitudes. I'm assuming I should use Asin(kx)sin(ωt), but if I plug in the given amplitude of .4 cm, then what variable am I solving for?

Also, I don't understand why sin(ωt) should be equal to 1.

They want you to find the amplitude which is the maximum value in one cycle. You plug .4 where A is, set sin(wt)=1 (you want the maximum displacement at the various values of x), and then plug in your values for lamda*x.

Hope this helps.
 

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