How to produce a standing wave question

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    Standing wave Wave
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around producing standing waves on a wire of length L = 1 m with both ends fixed. Participants are examining whether specific wavelengths can create standing waves and are prompted to explain their reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants consider the relationship between the length of the wire and the wavelengths, questioning which wavelengths can fit as integer multiples within the fixed length. There is discussion about the fundamental mode and half wavelengths fitting between nodes.

Discussion Status

Some participants have suggested that all wavelengths except for the 2-meter one may work, and they are seeking clarification on how to articulate this using the formula provided. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of the standing wave conditions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraint of a fixed wire length and are discussing the implications of this on the wavelengths specified. The need for integer multiples of wavelengths to fit within the length is a central point of inquiry.

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Homework Statement


using a wire of length L= 1 M with both ends fixed, can you produce a standing wave with the following wavelengths? Explain why or why no.

a. 30 cm:

b. 1m :

c. 75 cm :

d. 2 m :


Homework Equations


L=n. (λn/2)


The Attempt at a Solution



1m= n. 30 cm/2 ?
 
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A standing wave must fit a full "wave" inside the given length. In other words the length must be an integer multiple of the wavelength.
 
So would all of the wave lengths work except for the 2 meter one?And How can I explain it with the formula?

Thank you for your help.
 
michaelraymen said:

Homework Statement


using a wire of length L= 1 M with both ends fixed, can you produce a standing wave with the following wavelengths? Explain why or why no.

a. 30 cm:

b. 1m :

c. 75 cm :

d. 2 m :


Homework Equations


L=n. (λn/2)


The Attempt at a Solution



1m= n. 30 cm/2 ?

HallsofIvy said:
A standing wave must fit a full "wave" inside the given length. In other words the length must be an integer multiple of the wavelength.

For a string or wire fixed at both ends, the fundamental mode fits a half wavelength between the nodes, no?
 
michaelraymen said:
So would all of the wave lengths work except for the 2 meter one?And How can I explain it with the formula?

Thank you for your help.

Welcome to the PF.

I'd suggesting sketching each of the possible answers, to see if you get a whole number of half wavelengths between the nodes.
 

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