Solving for linear mass density of a string

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the linear mass density (μ) of a string using the relationship between frequency (f), tension (T), and length (L). The participant successfully manipulates equations, particularly μ = M/L and v = √(T/μ), to express μ in terms of the slope of a frequency vs. number of segments plot (df/dn). The final derived equation is μ = T/((df/dn) * 2L)², confirming the relationship between these physical parameters.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear mass density (μ) and its formula μ = M/L
  • Familiarity with wave mechanics, specifically the wave speed equation v = √(T/μ)
  • Knowledge of frequency and wavelength relationships, particularly λ = 2L/n
  • Basic calculus concepts for deriving equations and understanding slopes
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of wave equations in string theory
  • Learn about the relationship between tension, mass density, and wave speed in strings
  • Explore graphical analysis techniques for frequency vs. segment plots
  • Investigate the implications of linear mass density in different physical contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying wave mechanics, as well as educators and anyone involved in solving problems related to the properties of vibrating strings.

AToMic93
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HELP: Solving for equation of linear mass density of a string

Homework Statement


You will plot frequency vs. number of segments and determine a slope. Write the expression which will allow you to solve for the linear mass density of the string in terms of L, T, and the slope of your plot

Homework Equations


1) μ=M/L
2) T=2∏√(m/k) ?
3) λ=2L/n
4) df/dn=?
5) k=2∏/λ

The Attempt at a Solution


So what I've done is take equation 2 solve for m which is m=(T/2∏)2*k, with substitution from equation 5, then substitution from equation 3 to get the equation:
m=(T2*n)/(4∏L) which I substituted into equation 1 to get:
μ=(T2*n)/(4∏L2)
So so far I have the equation in terms of L and T but not in terms of the slope of my plot which would be df/dn.

Thanks!
 
Last edited:
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So I completely redid the problem a different way and I think this is right. Let me know if it is or not:
Equations:
1) v=√(T/μ)
2) v=(2Lf)/n

Attempt at solution:
Solve equation 1 for μ=T/v2, then solve equation 2 for f=vn/2L. Then derive f equation to get in terms of df/dn (slope of graph)= v/2L, solve for v, v=(df/dn)*2L and plug into the equation for μ to get μ=T/((df/dn)*2L)2.
This works right?
 

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