Waves traveling through a string

In summary: So cos(wt) = cos(2*pi*t/T).In summary, the standing wave on a string of length L has a displacement of y(x,t) = A*sin(kx)*cos(wt), where A is the amplitude, k is the wave number, and (wt) is the angular velocity of the particles. At a point (1/4) L from one end, the amplitude is 6.00. To find the amplitude of the traveling waves that form this standing wave, we can use the fact that at L/4, kx must be pi/4. By solving for A, we can find the amplitude of the traveling waves. The angular velocity of the particles is constant and can be found using
  • #1
j88k
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Homework Statement



A string of length L vibrates at its fundamental frequency. The amplitude at a point (1/4) L from one end is 6.00 .

What is the amplitude of each of the traveling waves that form this standing wave?


Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution



I absolutely don't know where to start. Have to submit it as soon as possible and I'm running out of options.
Please help :s
 
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  • #2
In the standing wave, the displacement of the particles of the string is given by
y(x,t) = A*sin(kx)*cos(wt). For all the particles cos(wt) remains constant. When kx = 0, the point is node. When kx = pi/2, the point is anti node, which is at the middle of the string. At L/4, kx must be pi/4. Now find A.
 
  • #3
rl.bhat said:
In the standing wave, the displacement of the particles of the string is given by
y(x,t) = A*sin(kx)*cos(wt). For all the particles cos(wt) remains constant. When kx = 0, the point is node. When kx = pi/2, the point is anti node, which is at the middle of the string. At L/4, kx must be pi/4. Now find A.
what goes for y(x,t) and cos(wt) then?
 
  • #4
anyone ?
 
  • #5
what goes for y(x,t) and cos(wt) then?
y(x,t) is the vertical amplitude if the vibrating particle and (wt) is the angular velocity of the particle which is same for all particles.
 
  • #6
sorry for being extremely shallow, but what it (wt) ?

I looked everywhere and I can't seem to find the constant.
 
  • #7
w = 2*pi/T where T is the time for one oscillation. It is constant for all particles. And t is the time.
 

FAQ: Waves traveling through a string

1. How do waves travel through a string?

Waves travel through a string by the transfer of energy from one particle to the next. When a disturbance is created at one end of the string, it causes the particles in that section to move, which in turn causes the next section of particles to move, and so on.

2. What types of waves can travel through a string?

Transverse waves and longitudinal waves can both travel through a string. In transverse waves, the particles move perpendicular to the direction of the wave, while in longitudinal waves, the particles move parallel to the direction of the wave.

3. How does the tension of the string affect the speed of the wave?

The tension of the string directly affects the speed of the wave. A higher tension will result in a faster wave speed, while a lower tension will result in a slower wave speed. This is because a higher tension causes the particles to move more quickly, resulting in a faster transfer of energy.

4. What happens to the wave when it reaches the end of the string?

When a wave reaches the end of a string, it is reflected back in the opposite direction. This is known as wave reflection. The reflected wave can interfere with the original wave, resulting in standing waves.

5. Can the amplitude of the wave change as it travels through the string?

Yes, the amplitude of the wave can change as it travels through the string. This can occur due to factors such as wave interference, damping, or changes in tension. However, the frequency of the wave remains constant as it travels through the string.

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