Calculating Properties of a Transverse Wave on a Rope

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating properties of a transverse wave on a rope described by the equation y(x, t) = (0.710 cm) cos(π[(0.400 cm-1)x + (500 s-1)t]). Key properties such as amplitude, period, frequency, wavelength, and speed of propagation are derived using the relationships v = f * λ and the sinusoidal model y(x, t) = A cos(2π[(x/λ) + (t/T)]). The amplitude is 0.710 cm, frequency is 250 Hz, period is 0.004 s, wavelength is 1.57 cm, and speed of propagation is 400 cm/s.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave properties such as amplitude, frequency, and wavelength
  • Familiarity with the wave equation and sinusoidal models
  • Knowledge of angular frequency and wave number
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
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Homework Statement



A transverse wave on a rope is given by the following equation.
y(x, t) = ( 0.710 cm ) cos pi [(0.400 cm^-1)x + (500 s^-1)t]

From this, find the amplitude, period, frequency, wavelength and the speed of propagation.

Homework Equations



Well, I know that v=f*lambda. I also know the general equation for sinusodal models in the -x direction:

y(x,t)= A*cos2pi[(x/lamda)+(t/period)]

(I choose to use this particular equation because it ties in with the one given to me)


The Attempt at a Solution



This problem is driving me nuts. I should be able to just take out the units that it aligns with and get that for the answer, right? I took out the 0.71, so I found the amplitude. I found the frequency by dividing 500 by 2. I found the period by dividing 1/250. But I can't for the life of me find the wavelength or the speed of propagation, can anyone please help? Thanks very much!
 
Last edited:
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Can anyone please help? I'm so lost.
 
The form y(x,t) = A cos (kx-wt) is more appropriate here...k is equal to 2PI/lambda and
w = vk. So your amplitude is given, period and frequency can be derived from the value given for angular velocity (w), wavelength derives from the value for k...and your speed of propagation is found using angular velocity (w) and wave number (k). Good Luck!
 

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