What is the relationship between standing waves, tension, and velocity?

In summary, the conversation discussed questions about frequency, wavelength, and velocity in relation to different equations and scenarios. The first question focused on calculating velocity using the equation v=f(wavelength), while the second question explored the relationship between frequency and velocity when tension remains the same. The third question involved the use of the fundamental frequency equation fn=(n/2L)(sqrt(F/(m/L)) to determine the wavelength and standing wave pattern in different scenarios. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of understanding and applying equations to solve problems involving waves and standing waves.
  • #1
zell_D
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0
upload.jpg

Homework Statement


see question 2a, b

Homework Equations


a) v=f(wavelength)
b) v= sqrt(F/(m/L))

The Attempt at a Solution


a) f=2.5 Hz, t=1.0 s and one wavelength on the graph is I guess 0.4 m?
v=2.5(.4)=1 m/s
b) f=5.0 Hz, tension same
v= sqrt(F/(m/L)) means that a change in frequency will not change the velocity?
1=5(wavelength)
wavelength= 0.2 m?


Homework Statement


see question 3a, b

Homework Equations


fn=(n/2L)(sqrt(F/(m/L))

The Attempt at a Solution


a)since this is a second harmonic, f2 = 2(2/L)(sqrt(F/(m/L)) = (1/L)(sqrt(F/(m/L))... wavelength = L

quadrupling F would mean that f=(1/L)(sqrt(4F/(m/L)) = (2/L)(sqrt(F/(m/L))
since f does not change, only way that these two will be equal is if the above is divided by 2
(2/2L)(sqrt(F/(m/L)) = (1/L)(sqrt(F/(m/L))
thus wavelength = 2L, so the new picture should just contain half of the wave?

b)tripling tension would mean that wavelength = sqrt(3)L... this shouldn't be possible right? since a standing wave needs to be connected at both ends (nodes) and having a wavelength of 1.7L would not connect on one end...please help! thanks
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
I think you should start off by looking at the first calculation. You've picked up an extra factor of 10 somewhere.
 
  • #3
edited, but do things seem right or are they wrong 2b and 3a, b are the ones I am not sure on
 

1. What are standing waves and how are they formed?

Standing waves are a type of wave that occurs when two waves with the same frequency and amplitude travel in opposite directions and interfere with each other. This results in a pattern of nodes (points of no displacement) and antinodes (points of maximum displacement) that do not move or travel through space.

2. What role does tension play in the formation of standing waves?

Tension is a key factor in the formation of standing waves. It determines the speed at which the waves travel and the distance between nodes and antinodes. Higher tension results in a higher speed of the waves and a shorter distance between nodes and antinodes, while lower tension has the opposite effect.

3. How is the wavelength of a standing wave related to the length of the medium?

The wavelength of a standing wave is directly related to the length of the medium in which it is traveling. For example, in a string fixed at both ends, the wavelength of the standing wave will be twice the length of the string. This relationship holds true for other types of media, such as air columns in musical instruments.

4. Can standing waves be observed in all types of media?

Yes, standing waves can occur in any type of medium, as long as the conditions for their formation are met. They can be observed in solid, liquid, and gaseous media, as well as in various forms of electromagnetic radiation.

5. How are standing waves used in practical applications?

Standing waves have many practical applications, such as in musical instruments and in medical imaging techniques like ultrasound. They are also used in particle accelerators to create standing wave fields that accelerate particles to high speeds. Additionally, standing waves are studied and utilized in fields such as acoustics, optics, and electromagnetics.

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