If the speed of a wave on a string is halved while the length remains the same, what happens to the fundamental frequency?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Study for the Praxis Physics Exam with interactive questions and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding of physics concepts. Prepare for your exam efficiently!

Multiple Choice

If the speed of a wave on a string is halved while the length remains the same, what happens to the fundamental frequency?

Explanation:
Fundamental frequency on a string fixed at both ends is f1 = v/(2L). This comes from the standing-wave condition where the fundamental has a half-wavelength fitting across the length, so λ1 = 2L and f = v/λ. If the speed v is halved while the length L stays the same, the new fundamental frequency becomes f1' = (v/2)/(2L) = (1/2)·(v/(2L)) = f1/2. So the fundamental frequency is halved. (All frequencies scale with wave speed, so higher harmonics would also be halved.)

Fundamental frequency on a string fixed at both ends is f1 = v/(2L). This comes from the standing-wave condition where the fundamental has a half-wavelength fitting across the length, so λ1 = 2L and f = v/λ. If the speed v is halved while the length L stays the same, the new fundamental frequency becomes f1' = (v/2)/(2L) = (1/2)·(v/(2L)) = f1/2. So the fundamental frequency is halved. (All frequencies scale with wave speed, so higher harmonics would also be halved.)

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy