How Do You Calculate Node Distance in a Standing Wave?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the distance between points with specific amplitudes in a standing wave on a string of length 1.5m vibrating in its fundamental mode. The maximum amplitude is 4mm, and the amplitude at the center is 2mm. The calculations reveal that the distance between points with 2mm amplitude is 1m, contradicting the provided answer of 50cm. The participants conclude that the discrepancy arises from the nature of standing waves, which have fixed nodes at both ends.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically standing waves
  • Familiarity with the wave equation y=Asinkxcoswt
  • Knowledge of wavelength calculation, particularly λ=2*L
  • Ability to manipulate trigonometric functions in the context of wave physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of standing waves and their nodes and antinodes
  • Learn about the implications of amplitude in wave mechanics
  • Explore the differences between traveling waves and standing waves
  • Investigate the use of harmonic frequencies in string vibrations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, as well as educators and anyone involved in teaching or learning about the properties of standing waves.

nil1996
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Homework Statement


A string of length 1.5m with its two ends clamped is vibrating in fundamental mode. Amplitude at the center of the string is 4mm. Find the distance between the points who have amplitude 2mm.


Homework Equations


y=Asinkxcoswt
λ=2*L

The Attempt at a Solution



First of all i was trying to get the distances of the points from one of the nodes.
so putting t=0 i get y=Asinkx

k=2π/λ
λ=2*L = 2*1.5 = 3

so y= Asin[itex]\frac{2π}{λ}[/itex]x
i know the amplitude is 2mm which is half the max amplitude.
[itex]\frac{A}{2}[/itex]=Asin[itex]\frac{2π}{λ}[/itex]x

So that gives
0.5=sin[itex]\frac{2π}{λ}[/itex]x
[itex]\frac{π}{6}[/itex]=[itex]\frac{2πx}{λ}[/itex]

0.25=x
Now the other particle will be 1.25m from the node.

so the difference is 1m

but the answer given is 50cm
Where i have gone wrong??
 
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I believe your solution is correct, the answer given is wrong. for a normal traveling wave the answer would be would be 50cm but this is a standing wave (n=1) with nodes at its two ends so I believe your answer is correct!
 

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