Calculating Fundamental Frequency and Wavelength of a Vibrating String

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the fundamental frequency and wavelength of a vibrating steel string under tension. The problem involves parameters such as the length of the string, linear density, tension, and the speed of sound in air at a specific temperature.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the fundamental frequency using the provided formula but questions the accuracy of their result. Participants inquire about the use of metric units and whether mass should be converted from grams to kilograms.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants clarifying the units involved and confirming the need for unit conversion. There is no explicit consensus yet, but guidance regarding metric units has been provided.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of using different units and the potential impact on the calculations. The original poster's calculations may be affected by the unit conversion of mass.

cupcakequeen
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Homework Statement



A 90 cm long steel string with a linear density of 1.1g/m is under 200N tension. It is plucked and vibrates at its fundamental frequency. What is the wavelength of the sound wave that reaches your ear in a 20 degree C room?

Homework Equations



f = 1/2L * sqrt T/mu
v = f*gamma

The Attempt at a Solution


1/(2*0.9) * sqrt (200/1.1) = 7.49Hz
v = f*gamma so v/f = gamma; 343m/s/7.49 Hz = 45.78m
but this answer is wrong! Where did I go wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
metric units?
 
yes, all metric
 
what is the metric unit for mass?
 
do I need to convert grams to kilograms?
 
yup. thanks!
 

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