Standing waves question with harmonics?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving standing waves in a well, specifically focusing on the frequencies of 42, 70, and 98 Hz, and the implications for determining the depth of the well using the speed of sound.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the nature of the frequencies and their relationship to harmonics, questioning the assumption that 42 Hz is the fundamental frequency. There is an exploration of harmonic ratios and how they relate to the depth of the well.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered hints regarding the use of frequency ratios, while others are exploring the classification of the system as open or closed. There is an ongoing investigation into the harmonic nature of the frequencies presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraint that the fundamental frequency is not definitively identified, which complicates the approach to finding the well's depth.

Kratos321
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Homework Statement



A person hums into the top of a well and finds that standing waves are established at frequencies of 42, 70 and 98 Hz. The frequency of 42 Hz is not necessarily the fundamental frequency. The speed of sound is 343m/s. How deep is the well?

Homework Equations



just harmonic ratios.

The Attempt at a Solution



i've no clue pls help. since we can't assume that 42Hz is the fundamental.

my first approach was to use the fundamental frequency. find the wavelength and then half of that would be the depth but i don't know how to do it if we can't assume.
 
Last edited:
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Hint: Consider the ratio of one frequency to another, for all pairs.
 
is this system open closed?
 
ok so i figured out that the 42Hz is the third harmonic. now what shall i do?
 
How did you figure out it was the third harmonic?
 

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