Monochromatic transverse wave problem

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SUMMARY

The problem involves a monochromatic transverse wave propagating on a string with a velocity of 12 m/s, amplitude of 0.05 m, and wavelength of 0.4 m. The wave function is defined as y(x,t) = Asin(kx - ωt), where k = 5π and ω = 60π. The initial calculation of y(0.25, 0.15) resulted in -0.02, which contradicted the requirement that ∂y/∂t be positive. Adjusting the amplitude A to -0.05 resolved the issue, yielding the correct wave behavior.

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  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically transverse waves
  • Familiarity with wave parameters: amplitude, wavelength, and wave velocity
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and their applications in wave equations
  • Ability to compute derivatives and interpret physical meaning in the context of wave motion
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  • Study wave equations in detail, focusing on the form y(x,t) = Asin(kx - ωt)
  • Learn about the physical significance of wave parameters such as amplitude and phase
  • Explore the concept of wave propagation and boundary conditions in string waves
  • Investigate the implications of wave direction and velocity on wave behavior
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Gil-H
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Homework Statement


Monochromatic transverse wave is propagating
in the positive x direction on a string (neither end is fixed).
The wave velocity is 12 m/s, amplitude 0.05 m, and wavelength is 0.4 m.
At t=0 and x=0 the string altitude is 0, and moving in
the positive y direction [i.e. (dy/dt)|(t=0) > 0]

Find the altitude y at x=0.25 m and t=0.15 sec.


The Attempt at a Solution


I figured that since y is 0 when x and t are 0, it must sine:
y(x,t) = Asin(kx-ωt)

I found the parameters I need:
k = (2π/λ)=(2π)/(0.4) = 5π
ω = vk = 12*5π = 60π

and I get
y(x,t) = 0.05sin(5πx-60πt)

I plug in the values x=0.25 and t=0.15 and get
y(0.25,0.15) = -0.02

But this is not the answer. Why?
What did I do wrong?
 
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Gil-H said:

The Attempt at a Solution


I figured that since y is 0 when x and t are 0, it must sine:
y(x,t) = Asin(kx-ωt)

For the expression you wrote, ∂y/∂t is negative. But the problem statement said ∂y/∂t is positive.

You'll need to modify your expression so that ∂y/∂t is positive.
 


Thanks.

I've set A to be -0.05 and it worked.
 

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