Power of Wave: Calculating P & P0 Ratios

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The discussion focuses on calculating the power of a wave pulse traveling along a string with a given linear mass density and wave equation. The participant correctly calculates the wave speed but struggles with applying the power formula due to the presence of a decaying exponential in the wave equation. It is clarified that the power formula used is applicable only for regular sinusoidal waves, not for the given wave with an exponential decay. The participant is advised to reconsider their approach and utilize concepts from the derivation of the power formula specific to this type of wave. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting the wave's characteristics in power calculations.
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Homework Statement


A wave pulse traveling along a string of linear mass density 0.0043 kg/m is described by the relationship
y = A0 e −b x sin(k x − ω t) ,
where A0 = 0.0032 m, b = 0.68 m −1 , k = 0.57 m −1 and ω = 44 s −1 .
What is the power carried by this wave at
the point x = 2.2 m?
Answer in units of W.

Part b
What is the power carried by this wave at the origin?
Answer in units of W.

Part c
Compute the ratio P/P0 .


Homework Equations


v = w/k
P=1/2 \muw2A2v


The Attempt at a Solution


v=w/k => 44s-1/0.57m-1=77.19 m/s

Plug it in the Power equation
P=1/2 (0.0043kg/m)(44s-1)2(0.0032 m)2(77.19 m/s) = 0.00329 W

Can someone please let me know if I am on the right track? I feel like it's wrong since e is added this time. I feel like I have to do some derivative. Thank you!
 
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MissPenguins said:

The Attempt at a Solution


v=w/k => 44s-1/0.57m-1=77.19 m/s

Plug it in the Power equation
P=1/2 (0.0043kg/m)(44s-1)2(0.0032 m)2(77.19 m/s) = 0.00329 W

Can someone please let me know if I am on the right track? I feel like it's wrong since e is added this time. I feel like I have to do some derivative. Thank you!
Your calculation looks fine to me. What do you mean by "e is added this time"?

If you want to use TeX to write symbols, you should use it for the entire expression instead of just for individual symbols. It's easier for you and it'll look nicer.
 
vela said:
Your calculation looks fine to me. What do you mean by "e is added this time"?

If you want to use TeX to write symbols, you should use it for the entire expression instead of just for individual symbols. It's easier for you and it'll look nicer.


So is my approach correct?
 
Yup, looks good to me.
 
I submitted the answer, and it's wrong! :(
 
Oh, I'm sorry. I totally overlooked the decaying exponential. I take it that's what you meant by "e is added this time."

The formula for the power you used is for the average power of a regular sinusoidal wave traveling on the string. You don't have that here, so it's not applicable.
 
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