Standing Waves Question: Find Wavelength and Amplitude in Two Connected Strings

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two connected strings with different linear mass densities and the propagation of waves through them. The original poster seeks to determine the wavelength and amplitude of a wave as it transitions from a lighter string to a heavier one, given specific parameters such as amplitude and wavelength in the lighter string.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between wave speed, wavelength, and frequency as the wave transitions between strings of differing mass densities. There is discussion about the implications of changing mass density on wave speed and wavelength, with some participants questioning the accuracy of the initial calculations and assumptions.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided calculations and reasoning regarding the wavelength in the second string, with conflicting views on whether the wavelength should increase or decrease as the wave moves into the heavier string. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationships between speed, frequency, and wavelength, but no consensus has been reached on the final values.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that tension is constant across both strings and that frequency remains the same. There is also a noted confusion regarding the application of formulas related to wave properties, particularly in the context of differing mass densities.

Just_some_guy
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This is my first post on the forum, and I hope you guys can help me

My questions is this,
There are two strings which are connected with constant tension everywhere, but they have different linear mass densities. The second mass density is double that of the first (μ1= 2μ1). A wave propagates along the "lighter" string with an amplitude of 10 cm and a wavelength of 10 cm. I have to find the wavelength of the wave propagated through the second string, assuming frequency is the same everywhere, and also what is the amplitude of the transmitted wAve?

Relevant equations which I have used are

v= ω/k = λω/2π where k= 2π/λ

Also v^2 = T/μ

All I have done so far is to notice that if the second mass density is double the first then the second velocity is a factor of sqrt2/2 smaller than the first? So would λ then simply be the same factor larger than that of the first wavelength as frequency is constant?If this is the case then my answer was 14 cm

I haven't yet begun the second part as I wanted to do the first part firstCheers!
 
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I hope my question is clear
 
Last edited:
Ok I have now calculated a value for lambda 2I got 14 cmUsing v1/λ1= v2/λ2

And put v1= sqrt2 / 2 and v2= 1 because that's the factor between the two as tension is uniform and frequency is equal over all parts
 
Last edited:
I think your ratio between the speeds is upside down. Since the wave passes from the lighter spring to the heavier one, the wave slows down and shrinks by a factor of √2. Besides this minor mistake, the procedure you used is correct. The second question is harder to solve.
 
So my new wavelength would then be

7 cm rather than 14, by getting rid of my factor of 1/2Do you have any suggestions for the second part I'm not so sure?:(
 
Would the answer not have to be 14 cm

As v= fλ then if we have velocity decreasing then to compensate and keep frequency the same then wavelength must surely increase? Not decrease also?
 
Just_some_guy said:
Would the answer not have to be 14 cm

As v= fλ then if we have velocity decreasing then to compensate and keep frequency the same then wavelength must surely increase? Not decrease also?

You're confused. If the left side of the equation decreases than the right side must ALSO DECREASE to compensate.
 
So 7 cm would be the correct answer
 
Just_some_guy said:
So 7 cm would be the correct answer

So it seems.
 
  • #10
That makes sense, I was mixing up the formula I was using:(
Anyways thanks, I also found I good way to find amplitude...

A2/A1 = 2k1/ k1+ k2

And calculated each term according to k= 2π/λ
 

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