Which pulse does more work on the spring?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the work done by two transverse wave pulses on a string, where one pulse has an amplitude of A and the other has an amplitude of 2A. The conclusion drawn is that no work is done on the string because the force applied by the pulse is perpendicular to the direction of the string's movement. The relevant equation used is W = Fd, emphasizing that work is zero when force is perpendicular to displacement. Clarification is needed regarding the terminology used, specifically the distinction between "string" and "spring."

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of transverse wave mechanics
  • Familiarity with the work-energy principle
  • Knowledge of relevant physics equations, particularly W = Fd
  • Basic concepts of amplitude in wave physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between wave amplitude and energy transfer in strings
  • Study the implications of force direction on work done in physics
  • Explore examples of wave interactions with different media
  • Learn about the differences between strings and springs in wave mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding wave mechanics and the principles of work and energy in physical systems.

starnair03
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Homework Statement
Two separate wave pulses are created at different times during the data collection. one pulse has an amplitude of A while the other has an amplitude of 2A. Which of the pulse does more work on the string? explain using relevant formulas.
Relevant Equations
W = Fd
I thought work is 0 because force is applying perpendicular to the spring's moving direction. these pulses are transverse pulse since those have amplitude, and pulse is moving horizontal, which means applying force horizontally, but spring is moving vertical. So my conclusion is "because pulse is moving perpendicular to the spring moving, means pulse is applying force perpendicular to the spring, which is 0 work".

Is my conclusion correct? I have no one to check my answer because school season is ended..
 
Physics news on Phys.org
starnair03 said:
Problem Statement: Two separate wave pulses are created at different times during the data collection. one pulse has an amplitude of A while the other has an amplitude of 2A. Which of the pulse does more work on the string? explain using relevant formulas.
Relevant Equations: W = Fd

perpendicular to the spring
What spring? There is none mentioned in the problem statement. There is mention of string, but if that should be spring then it is unclear how this relates to the wave.
Please provide the entire statement, including any diagram.
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
29
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 58 ·
2
Replies
58
Views
3K
  • · Replies 52 ·
2
Replies
52
Views
3K
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
986
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K