Waves: String Physics? Correct my units

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the force required to achieve a specific wavelength of a wave on a string. The key variables involved are the tension (T), mass per unit length (μ), and the wave's frequency (125 Hz). The user initially calculated the velocity as 15 m/s using the wavelength of 0.12 m, but later corrected the wavelength to 1.2 m. The correct calculation for tension yields approximately 63.7 N, highlighting the importance of accurate unit conversion in wave physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics and string physics
  • Familiarity with the concepts of tension (T) and mass per unit length (μ)
  • Basic knowledge of frequency and wavelength relationships
  • Proficiency in unit conversion and dimensional analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between tension and wave speed in strings
  • Explore the derivation of wave equations in different media
  • Learn about the effects of mass per unit length on wave propagation
  • Investigate practical applications of wave physics in engineering
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, as well as educators and professionals involved in teaching or applying concepts related to wave behavior in strings.

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Waves: String Physics?? Correct my units..

Homework Statement


The velocity of a wave on a string depends on how hard the string is stretched and on the mass per unit length of the string. If T is the force exerted on the string and Mu is the mass/unit length, then velocity v is

http://nas.cl.uh.edu/blanford/FormulasWaves_files/image012.gif
(I think)

A piece of string 5.3m long has a mass of 15g. What must the force on the string be to make wavelength of a 125Hz wave 120cm?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


The given answer is 63.7N

I converted wavelength lambda to 0.12M and 15g to 0.015kg..
wavelength=velocity/frequency.. so wavelength*frequency=velocity..
0.12M*125Hz=15 m/s=velocity

15m/s = [square root of T(force)/Mu(mass length ratio)]
He also gave us another equation..
instead of [square root T/Mu], there is also [square root T*length/mass]

So..
15m/s=[square root of T*5.3m/0.015kg]
[(15^2 m^2)(0.015kg)]/[(s^2)(5.3m)]=T..
T=~0.636N..which would be right if it were multiplied by 100.. Anyone see where I went wrong?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
120 cm is 1.2 meters not 0.12 meters.
 
Har harrr
Oopss and thanks!
 

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