Modeling a Triangular Wave Pulse on a Taut String

[Quincy]

Homework Statement

A triangular wave pulse on a taut string travels in the positive x-direction with speed v. The tension in the string is F, and the linear mass density of the string is u. At t = 0, the shape of the pulse is given by:

y(x,0) = 0 if x < -L
h(L + x)/L for -L < x < 0
h(L - x)/L for 0 < x < L
0 for x > L

The Attempt at a Solution

I don't really know where to start, I'm having problems interpreting the question; what does L represent? What is the h function?

 

[Quincy]

Bump; anyone?

 

[ehild]

Plot the function. You will see what L is.

What is the question in the problem?

ehild

 

[Quincy]

how can i plot the function if i don't know what L is?

 

[ehild]

Choose the scaling of x to be L and h of y.

ehild

 

[Quincy]

Thanks;

Also, why is it that the power during the interval [-1,1] is constant?

 

[ehild]

What power? And why [-1,1]? Copy the whole problem, please. What is the question?