Physlet Physics by Christian and Belloni: Problem 17.15

17.1: Wave Types
17.2: Wave Functions
17.3: Superposition of Pulses
17.4: Superposition of Traveling Waves
17.5: Resonant Behavior on a String
17.6: Plucking a String
17.7: Group and Phase Velocity

Problem 17.15: Determine the properties of a standing wave on a taut string

Please wait for the animation to completely load.

The animation shows a portion of a standing wave on a taut string (position is given in centimeters and time is given in seconds). Restart.

Measure the frequency, wavelength, and period of the wave in the animation.
Write a formula for the position as a function of time for a small section of string located at x = 0 cm and a formula for x = 2 cm.
Write a formula for the velocity as a function of time for a small section of string located at x = 0 cm and a formula for x = 2 cm.
Sketch the velocity of the string as a function of x at t = 0 cm. That is, show how each small section of string is moving at t = 0 s.

Physlets were developed at Davidson College and converted from Java to JavaScript using the SwingJS system developed at St. Olaf College.