Help understanding a vibrating string question

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around understanding the boundary value problem related to vibrating strings, specifically in deriving the wave equation represented by the equation utt = c²uxx. The participant interprets the professor's request as a need to develop the equation of motion for the system and demonstrate how the boundary conditions apply to the problem. Additionally, it is essential to express the wave speed 'c' in terms of the provided data to fully address the problem requirements.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave equations, specifically utt = c²uxx
  • Knowledge of boundary value problems in physics
  • Familiarity with the concepts of displacement and motion in vibrating systems
  • Ability to relate physical parameters to mathematical expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of the wave equation from first principles
  • Study boundary conditions in the context of vibrating strings
  • Learn how to express wave speed 'c' in terms of physical parameters
  • Explore examples of boundary value problems in classical mechanics
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to vibrating strings and boundary value problems.

John004
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Homework Statement


So I don't really understand what the professor means by "show why the displacements y(x,t) should satisfy this boundary value problem" in problem 1. Doesn't that basically boil down to deriving the wave equation? At least in problem 2 he says what he wants us to show.

Homework Equations


utt = c2uxx

The Attempt at a Solution


The problem set is in the attachment
 

Attachments

  • PDE HW 1.png
    PDE HW 1.png
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I would interpret that problem to mean
1) develop the equation of motion for the system, ending up with the wave equation
2) show that, for this situation, the boundary conditions are those suggested in the problem statement.
In the process, you will need to show how c is related to the given information, so don't just write "c" but put it in terms of the given data.
 

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