Standing Wave Problem, What is the mass of the string?

In summary, the conversation is about a string with a tension of 18 N and a length of 2.00 m, which has a fundamental frequency of 150 Hz. The mass of the string is calculated to be 0.0001 kg. To vibrate in three segments at 150 Hz, the string needs to be stretched with a tension of 2 N.
  • #1
timtng
25
0
When the tension is 18 N, a string 2.00 m long has a fundamental frequency of 150 Hz.
a.) What is the mass of the string?
b.) With what tension must the string be stretched so that it vibrates in three segments at 150 Hz?

This is what I came up with:
a.) f=v/2L, v=2Lf=2*2*150=600 m/s
v=sqrt(T/μ), v^2=T/μ, μ=T/v^2=18/600^2=.00005 kg/m
M=2*.00005= .0001 kg

b.) L=3λ/2, 2=3λ/2, λ=4/3
v=fλ=150*4/3=200 m/s
v^2=T/μ, T=μ*v^2=.00005*200^2= 2N

My friend kept on saying that I did this problem incorrectly.
Is my friend right?
 
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  • #2
Your basic approach looks correct. (Didn't check the numbers.)
 
Last edited:
  • #3


It is difficult to determine if your solution is incorrect without knowing the specific instructions or context of the problem. However, your calculation for the mass of the string (part a) appears to be correct based on the given information. The only potential issue is that you did not specify the units for the mass, which should be in kilograms (kg).

For part b, it seems like you are using the correct formula, T = μv^2, to determine the tension needed for the string to vibrate in three segments at 150 Hz. However, you did not mention what value you used for the mass of the string (μ) in this calculation. It should be the same value that you calculated in part a, which is 0.00005 kg/m. If you use this value, then your solution for part b is correct.

It is always a good idea to double check your calculations and make sure you are using the correct units for each quantity. If you are still unsure, it may be helpful to consult with your teacher or classmate to clarify any confusion.
 

What is a standing wave problem?

A standing wave problem is a phenomenon that occurs when a wave traveling through a medium reflects back on itself, resulting in a pattern of nodes (points of no displacement) and antinodes (points of maximum displacement).

What are some examples of standing wave problems?

Some examples of standing wave problems include vibrations in a guitar string or air column in a wind instrument, seismic waves in the Earth's crust, and electromagnetic waves between two parallel conductors.

How is the mass of a string related to a standing wave problem?

The mass of a string is directly related to the frequency of standing waves on that string. The higher the mass of the string, the lower the frequency and vice versa.

How can the mass of a string be determined in a standing wave problem?

The mass of a string can be determined by measuring the frequency of the standing wave and using the equation m = (nλ/2)² * μ, where m is the mass of the string, n is the number of nodes, λ is the wavelength, and μ is the linear density of the string.

What factors can affect the mass of a string in a standing wave problem?

The mass of a string can be affected by the tension, length, and linear density of the string. The type of material and temperature can also impact the mass of the string.

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