Solving for Wavelength of a Harmonic Wave

[physics_ash82]

ok I need help starting this problem. I always have trouble seeing which formula to use so ant thoughts would be helpful

A harmonic wave is traveling along a rope. It is observed that the oscillator that generates the wave completes 40.0 vibrations in 30.0 s. Also, a given maximum travels 425 cm along the rope in 10.0 s. What is the wavelength?

 

[Galileo]

It is observed that the oscillator that generates the wave completes 40.0 vibrations in 30.0 s.

This gives you the frequency.

Also, a given maximum travels 425 cm along the rope in 10.0 s.

This gives you the speed of propagation.

What is the wavelength?

You know frequency and speed and you need wavelength. Do you know any formula relating these quantities?

 

[physics_ash82]

so I would use the formula a=Aw^2cos(wt)

 

[Galileo]

so I would use the formula a=Aw^2cos(wt)

No. You'd use a formula relating the frequency, speed and wavelength of a traveling harmonic wave.

 

[Omar.Castillo]

Answer

Ok I hate seeing people trouble through homework
especially if your name is ashley (personal joke)

Anyway the formula you need is pretty simple and straightforward

speed= wavelength * frequency

I don't quite know how to place greek letters in this forum but that's basically it.

you should know how to get the speed which is simply distance/time
and the frequency should be obtained by the number of vibrations per second.

Just solve for lambda err wavelength and plug in numbers :D