Calculating Wavelength of Longitudinal Wave in Water from Steel

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the wavelength of a longitudinal wave in water after it travels from steel. The wave speed in steel is established at 5941 m/s, while in water it is 1482 m/s. Given a wavelength of 10.24 m in steel, the frequency remains constant when transitioning to water. Using the formula v = λ · f, the wavelength in water can be determined by first calculating the frequency from the steel wave parameters and then applying it to the water wave speed.

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  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically longitudinal waves.
  • Familiarity with the formula v = λ · f for wave calculations.
  • Knowledge of wave speed in different mediums, particularly steel and water.
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations.
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  • Calculate frequency of a wave using the formula v = λ · f.
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1. The wave speed of a longitudinal wave in steel is 5941 m/s. The Speed of a longitudinal wave in water is 1482 m/s. If a bar of steel is struck with a hammer and a wave with wavelength 10.24 m travels through the steel into water, what will be the wavelength of the wave in water?




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I just really don't know how to go through a problem like this. If someone could help me piece it together step-by-step, I would greatly appreciate it.
 
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Try using this formula : v=\lambda \cdot f
Where v is the speed of the wave, \lambda is the wave length and f is the frequency.

Hint: The frequency is always the same in this case.
 

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