Solved: Pulse Wave Problem - Speed of the Crest in m/s

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SUMMARY

The speed of the crest of a pulse wave traveling along a string can be calculated using the formula v = sqrt(F/u), where F is the tension in the string and u is the linear density. In this case, the tension F is 200 N, and the linear density u is calculated as M/L, which equals 2 kg/m for a string of length 5 m and mass 10 kg. Therefore, the correct speed v is 10 m/s, not the incorrect value of 17.320 m/s previously calculated.

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  • Understanding of wave mechanics and properties of waves
  • Familiarity with the concepts of tension and linear density
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of the formula for wave speed in a string
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  • Review the derivation of the wave speed formula v = sqrt(F/u)
  • Study the relationship between tension and wave speed in different mediums
  • Explore examples of wave propagation in strings and other materials
  • Learn about the effects of varying tension and mass on wave speed
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, as well as educators looking for clear examples of wave speed calculations in strings.

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Homework Statement



A string of length l = 5 m weighs M = 10 kg . A pulse wave is traveling along the string. What is the speed v of the crest of the pulse, in the uint of m/s , if the tension of the string F is 200 N ?



Homework Equations



v= sqrt F/u
u= m/L

HELP: We can obtain an expression for the wave speed by analyzing the forces acting a string of length l and mass M. Do you recall the resulting relation between the speed of the wave and the tension and the linear density?

HELP: ...Get the density by defination and then use above equation.


The Attempt at a Solution



I tried importing the numbers into the equation what I thought was the equation the HELP statement suggested.. and i got

v=sqrt 200/(10/15) = 17.320 ... is there something else i should be doing because this answer was wrong but i thought for sure i was doing it correct.
 
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The length of the string is 5 m. Where did you get 15 m?
 

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