What Is the Maximum Velocity of a Particle on a Tensioned String?

  • Thread starter Thread starter oldunion
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physics
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the maximum velocity of a particle on a tensioned string with a given tension and linear density. Participants clarify that the wave speed in the string is determined by the tension and linear mass density, using the formula v = sqrt(T/μ). They note that the maximum velocity of a particle on the string involves the wave's amplitude and angular frequency, expressed as Vmax = ωA. Confusion arises over the relationship between wave propagation speed and particle velocity, emphasizing that particles oscillate vertically rather than move along the string. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of understanding the underlying physics equations to solve for maximum particle velocity accurately.
oldunion
Messages
182
Reaction score
0
A string that is under 46.0 N of tension has linear density 5.00 g/m. A sinusoidal wave with amplitude 2.80 cm and wavelength 1.80 m travels along the string.
what is the maximum velocity of a particle on the string.

i don't know how to solve this without a frequency or length of string.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I don't recall the exact relationship, but from density and tension you can find the velocity. Since you have wavelength, you can get the frequency. I'm sure you have the relationship in your text or reference material.

From googling

c = sqrt(T/density per length)
 
wavelength= velocty/frequency.
and i don't understand your reference for density and tension
 
oldunion said:
i don't understand your reference for density and tension

The speed of a wave in a stretched string depends on the tension in the string, and on the mass of the string per unit length (kg/m) which is usually called the linear mass density. Rewriting OlderDan's formula a bit (because I don't like to use c for any speed other than the speed of light, and the linear mass density is usually called \mu):

v = \sqrt {\frac {T}{\mu}}
 
Wait.. isn't this "v" the velocity of propagation? The original question asked for

what is the maximum velocity of a particle on the string.

This is the first derivative of the wave function at zero displacement, no?

Zz.
 
Do you understand that a "particle on the string" is moving up and down, not moving along the string with the wave?
 
v=\sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}}
\omega=2\pi \frac{v}{\lambda}
v_{max}=\omega A
 
clive said:
v=\sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}}
\omega=2\pi \frac{v}{\lambda}
v_{max}=\omega A

I understand the equations but why do all of them fit, why not just use the last Vmax to get the answer instead of subbing and letting the end equation be

I don't understand how getting this was the answer

Vmax = (2pi*A)/wavelength * sqrt(Tension/mu)
 
Back
Top