For transverse waves on a string, is the wave speed the same as the speed of any part of the string? Explain the difference between these two speeds. Which one is constant?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The speed of the wave on the String is not the same as the speed of any other part of the string.

Step by step solution

01

 Concept of simple harmonic motion.

Simple harmonic movements are defined as periodic movements in a straight line so that your acceleration is always in a straight line on that line and equal to your distance from that point.

Each point in the rope oscillates with a simple symmetrical motion with the same frequency as the wave in the sinusoidal transverse waves. The particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of the wave, and the particles are transferred directly to these waves. When flexible sinusoidal waves move, the particles in the cable move up and down, but no particles are transported; wave power is just from left to right. Moreover, the angular frequency of the particles is similar to the waves.

For example, ripples on the surface of the water and electromagnetic waves.

02

Electromagnetic waves relation with simple harmonic motion.

Electric waves can be considered a type of flexible wave. The particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of the wave, and the particles are transferred directly to these waves. Due to the simple harmonic motion, the wave speed does not correspond to the speed of any part of the series. This can be thought of as a cord tied to one end and the other cut and the opposite wave will move at a constant speed.

Therefore, the speed of the wave on the rope is not the same as the speed of any other part of the string.

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