Solve Simple Wave Problem: Find y at x=0.25 m & t=0.15 sec

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a monochromatic transverse wave problem, specifically finding the altitude y at x=0.25 m and t=0.15 sec. The wave is characterized by a velocity of 12 m/s, an amplitude of 0.05 m, and a wavelength of 0.4 m. The correct wave function is established as y(x,t) = -0.05sin(5πx - 60πt), with the negative sign included to satisfy the initial condition of positive velocity at t=0. The final calculated altitude at the specified coordinates is y(0.25, 0.15) = -0.0354 m.

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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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Welcome to PF!

Hi Gil-H! Welcome to PF! :wink:
Gil-H said:
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

The wave equation looks ok, :smile:

but how did you get .02? :confused:
 
I got -.02 because I was unawarely working in degrees.
I should be .0354
But after advice I got, I changed the wavefunction to be:
y(x,t) = -0.05sin(5πx-60πt) (I added a minus sign)
That's because of the condition that (dy/dt)|(t=0) > 0.

Anyway, thanks for trying to help (-:
 

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