Calculating Mass Using Standing Waves on a Suspended Wire

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the mass M attached to a suspended wire based on its second-harmonic frequency. Initially, the frequency is 200 Hz with mass M, and it increases to 245 Hz when an additional 1 kg is added. The relevant equations include the frequency formula f = v/L and the wave speed v = √(T/u), where T is the tension and u is the linear mass density. The solution involves manipulating these equations to isolate and calculate the mass M accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically standing waves
  • Familiarity with the concepts of tension and linear mass density
  • Knowledge of harmonic frequencies in strings
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between tension and frequency in strings
  • Learn about the derivation of wave speed in different mediums
  • Explore the concept of harmonic frequencies in more complex systems
  • Investigate practical applications of standing waves in engineering
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of wave mechanics and their applications in real-world scenarios.

physnoob
Messages
15
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


When mass M is tied to the bottom of a long, thin wire suspended from the ceiling, the wire's second-harmonic frequency is 200 Hz. Adding an additional 1kg to the hanging mass increases the second-harmonic frequency to 245 Hz. What is M?
f_{2} = 200hz, m = M
f_{2} = 245hz, m = M+1
g = 9.8m/s


Homework Equations


f=v/L, v = \sqrt{T/u}


The Attempt at a Solution


not sure where to start the problem
please help!
any help is greatly appreciated!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Just did some plug and chuck with the equation f = v/L, substituted v = sqrt(T/u), T=mg, u = m/L, m cancels out, L = 2.45x10^-4, does this sound right?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
6K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K