What is the period of a standing transverse wave on a flexible string?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the period of a standing transverse wave on a flexible string measuring 1.34 m in length, under a tension of 6 N, with a total mass of 12.22 g. Participants emphasize the need to first determine the wave speed, which is influenced by the string's tension, mass, and length. The string's length corresponds to 1.5 wavelengths, which is crucial for calculating the wavelength and subsequently the period of oscillation. The correct approach involves using the wave speed and wavelength to find the period.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically standing waves
  • Familiarity with the wave speed formula: v = √(T/μ)
  • Knowledge of the relationship between wavelength and string length in standing waves
  • Basic algebra for manipulating wave equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate wave speed using the formula v = √(T/μ) with T = 6 N and μ = mass/length
  • Determine the wavelength from the relationship of string length to wavelengths
  • Use the wave speed and wavelength to compute the period using the formula T = λ/v
  • Explore the effects of varying tension and mass on wave properties
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those studying wave mechanics and oscillations, as well as anyone involved in practical applications of wave theory in flexible mediums.

PhysicsPhun
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The diagram represents a snapshot of a standing transverse wave on a flexible string taken when the displacement is at a maximum. The string is 1.34 m long with tension 6 N. The total mass of the string is 12.22 g. Find the period of the oscillation.

The diagram is unlabeled. it just shows one and a half wavelengths.


a loop up, a loop down, another loop up. is what it looks like.

i don't know if that makes sense.. it's pretty simple i just don't know how else to show you the diagram.
 
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I think I understand what the diagram looks like. What I don't see is any question!
 
HallsofIvy said:
I think I understand what the diagram looks like. What I don't see is any question!

Find the period of oscillation.
 
Start by finding the speed of the wave. Hint: That speed depends on the tension, mass, and length of the string.
 
I found that, but what can i do next?

I have the length of the string, but i can't seem to find a way to find the wavelength, or the length of 1 1/2 wave lengths.
 
PhysicsPhun said:
I have the length of the string, but i can't seem to find a way to find the wavelength, or the length of 1 1/2 wave lengths.
According to your description, doesn't the length of the string equal 1 1/2 wavelengths?
 
Doc Al said:
According to your description, doesn't the length of the string equal 1 1/2 wavelengths?

Maybe i should try that again, i just got confused on what length meant.
 
Got it! thanks! hadn't tried that with my new velocity.

Much appreciated.
 

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