Waves MC Question - 2 strings, same tension, different μ

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of sinusoidal waves transitioning between two strings with different linear mass densities. String I has a linear mass density four times that of string II, while both strings maintain the same tension. The conclusion drawn from the equations indicates that the wavelength of the wave in string II is twice that of string I, leading to the correct answer being D: the wavelength decreases by a factor of 2, contrary to the initial assumption that it should be E.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically wave equations.
  • Knowledge of linear mass density and its effect on wave propagation.
  • Familiarity with tension in strings and its role in wave speed.
  • Basic algebra for manipulating wave equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between linear mass density and wave speed in strings.
  • Learn about wave reflection and transmission at boundaries between different media.
  • Explore the implications of tension on wave frequency and wavelength.
  • Investigate the derivation and application of the wave equation in different contexts.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, educators teaching wave properties, and anyone preparing for physics examinations involving wave behavior in strings.

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Homework Statement



A long string is constructed by joining the ends of two shorter strings. The tension in the strings
is the same but string I has 4 times the linear mass density of string II. When a sinusoidal
wave passes from string I to string II:

A. the frequency decreases by a factor of 4
B. the frequency decreases by a factor of 2
C. the wavelength decreases by a factor of 4
D. the wavelength decreases by a factor of 2
E. the wavelength increases by a factor of 2

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\lambda_1f= \sqrt{\frac{\tau}{4\mu}}=\frac{1}{2}\sqrt{\frac{\tau}{\mu}}[/itex]
[itex]\lambda_2f= \sqrt{\frac{\tau}{\mu}}[/itex]
[itex]\therefore \lambda_1 = \frac{1}{2}\lambda_2[/itex]

So shouldn't the answer be E since λ2 = 2λ1?
 
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That all looks correct to me.
 
Ok thanks. Its weird because the answer key says its D.
 

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