Overtones in a string (equation for wave)

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The discussion focuses on determining the wave equation for the first harmonic of a string given its fundamental tone and a sound intensity level that is 20 dB lower. The relationship between sound intensity and amplitude is highlighted, with the intensity of the harmonic being 0.01 times that of the fundamental tone, leading to an amplitude ratio of 0.1. However, there is confusion regarding the correct amplitude for the first harmonic, which is stated to be 0.05A_1 instead of 0.1A_1 due to the energy dependence on both amplitude and frequency. The participants reference external resources to clarify the relationship between intensity, amplitude, and wave energy. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these relationships in wave mechanics.
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Homework Statement


A string has the fundamental tone of
##s_1 = A_1\sin (\omega_1 t - k_1 x)##
Determinate the wave equation for the first harmonic of the string if the sound intensity level of the harmonic is 20dB lower than the fundamental tone. ##\omega_1 = 1360/s## and ##k_1 = 4/m##.

Homework Equations


Sound intensity level
##L = 10\lg (\frac{I_1}{I_0} )##
Sound intensity is proportional to the wave amplitude squared

##I \sim A^2##

The Attempt at a Solution


Sound intensity level
##-20 = 10\lg( \frac{I_2}{I_1}) \Longleftrightarrow I_2 = 0.01I_1##
Amplitude relationship
##\frac{A_2}{A_1} = 0.1 \Longleftrightarrow A_2 = 0.1A_1##
The first harmonic got double the frequency so
##s_2 = 0.1A_1 \sin(2 \omega_1 t - 2 k_1 x)##
which is wrong. According to the answer key it should be
##s_2 = 0.05A_1\sin(2 \omega_1 t-2k_1 x)##
Why is it 0.05?
 
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As I recall the intensity of a wave is proportional to the square of its amplitude. But perhaps I'm rusty.
 
TSny said:
Energy of a wave on string depends on ##\omega## as well as ##A##.

See http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/waves/powstr.html
Cheers!

CWatters said:
As I recall the intensity of a wave is proportional to the square of its amplitude. But perhaps I'm rusty.
Always a bit tricky, luckily we got TSny to link us the formula :)
 
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