Standing Waves: Linear Mass Density of a String?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of linear mass density (μ) of a string in a physics lab context. The equation provided, μ = 1 / (2Lslope)², requires clarification on the term "slope," which remains undefined due to missing background information. The user mentions obtaining a linear mass density of 0.673 grams per meter, which is validated by calculating the volume of a 1-meter cylindrical string and using the material's density for mass determination.

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I'm working on my physics lab and I'm confused by the equation that they provide.

μ=\frac { 1 }{ { (2Lslope) }^{ 2 } }

What exactly does slope represent here?

Also, what is the typical linear mass density of a string? I'm getting 0.673 grams per meter. Is this right?

Edit: Never mind about my first question. I get it now.
 
Last edited:
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It is impossible to say anything about the first question. All background info is missing.

The second question - you could answer it yourself. A string is a cylinder. Pick some small radius, which would be "typical" for you, find out the volume of the 1-meter cylinder, then find out the mass using the density of the material of the string.
 

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