Max Speed of Waves in Cowboy's Milk Glass: Solving a Physics Problem

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In summary, the conversation discusses a cowboy walking at a pace of two steps per second while holding a glass of milk with a diameter of 10.0 cm. The milk begins to slosh higher and higher until it eventually spills over the top. The maximum speed of the waves in the milk is determined by the frequency of 2, as the milk oscillates with each step. The equations y(t) = A sin(kx + wt + Φ) are mentioned, but there is uncertainty about how to approach the problem. It is suggested that the wave may travel from one edge of the glass to the other and back again in half a second.
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Elliot
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Missing template because of originally being posted in another forum.
1. a cowboy walks at a pace of about two steps per second, holding a glass of diameter 10.0 cm that contains milk. the milk sloshes higher and higher in the glass until it eventually starts to spill over the top. determine the maximum speed of the waves in the milk.

2. I know the frequency will be 2 since the milk oscillates with each step that he takes, but no sure how to approach it from their. the equations I think are:
y(t) = A sin(kx + wt + Φ)
 
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  • #2
It sounds like the wave travels from the leading lip of the glass to the other edge and back again in ½ second?
 

What is the "Cowboy physics problem"?

The "Cowboy physics problem" is a hypothetical scenario that involves a cowboy shooting a bullet horizontally while riding his horse. The question is whether the bullet will drop to the ground at the same time as if it was dropped from the same height without being shot.

What is the significance of the "Cowboy physics problem"?

The "Cowboy physics problem" highlights the concept of projectile motion and the effects of gravity on an object's trajectory. It also demonstrates the principle of inertia, where an object in motion will continue to move in a straight line unless acted upon by an external force.

What factors affect the outcome of the "Cowboy physics problem"?

The main factors that affect the outcome of the "Cowboy physics problem" are the initial velocity of the bullet, the height at which it is fired, and the force of gravity. Other factors such as air resistance and wind can also have subtle effects on the trajectory of the bullet.

What is the solution to the "Cowboy physics problem"?

The solution to the "Cowboy physics problem" is that the bullet will hit the ground at the same time as if it was dropped from the same height without being shot. This is due to the fact that the force of gravity acts on the bullet and the bullet's horizontal motion does not affect its vertical motion.

How does the "Cowboy physics problem" relate to real-life situations?

The "Cowboy physics problem" relates to real-life situations involving projectile motion, such as throwing a ball, shooting a basketball, or launching a rocket. It also highlights the importance of understanding the laws of motion and how they apply to everyday situations.

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