501. Two identical uniform strings are separately driven by pairs of sinusoidal transverse waves of equal individual amplitude \(A\) and common frequency \(f\). In arrangement P, the waves travel in opposite directions and form a pure standing wave. In arrangement Q, the waves travel in the same direction with a constant relative phase difference of \(\pi\), so their resultant displacement vanishes everywhere. Consider the following statements.
Statement I: Arrangement P can contain permanently stationary displacement nodes together with other string particles that oscillate.
Statement II: In arrangement Q, each component wave can carry nonzero average power although their resultant displacement is identically zero.
Statement III: Arrangement P and arrangement Q are physically identical because their resultant displacement can be zero across the entire string at some instant.
Statement IV: In arrangement P, the incident and oppositely travelling wave contributions have equal and opposite average energy flows, giving zero net average energy transport.
Statement V: In arrangement Q, the two waves must have different frequencies for complete cancellation to persist.
Which combination is correct?
ⓐ. Statements I, II and III only
ⓑ. Statements I, II and IV only
ⓒ. Statements II, IV and V only
ⓓ. Statements I, III and IV only
Correct Answer: Statements I, II and IV only
Explanation: The direction of propagation is important even when two wave superpositions can produce a zero-displacement configuration. In arrangement P, the two waves travel in opposite directions and establish a stationary spatial pattern. Some positions are permanent displacement nodes, while other particles oscillate with position-dependent amplitudes. Statement I is correct. In arrangement Q, the two waves have identical travelling-wave phase dependences except for a phase difference of \(\pi\). Their displacements cancel at every point and time. Each individual component can nevertheless be assigned a nonzero travelling-wave power before superposition, so Statement II is correct. Arrangement P is not physically equivalent to Q because the standing-wave pattern generally contains moving particles and a nonzero resultant displacement away from nodes. It only becomes straight at selected instants. Arrangement Q remains straight at every instant in the stipulated ideal model. Statement III is therefore incorrect. In arrangement P, the equal-amplitude waves transfer equal average powers in opposite directions, so their net average energy flow vanishes. Statement IV is correct. Persistent cancellation in Q requires a constant relative phase difference and equal amplitudes, which is naturally maintained when the waves have the same frequency. Different frequencies would cause their relative phase to change with time. Statement V is incorrect. The comparison distinguishes stationary-wave formation from complete cancellation of co-propagating coherent waves.
502. An ideal organ pipe is open at both ends, has length \(1.00\,\text{m}\), and contains air in which sound travels at \(240\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). A pressure microphone is positioned at \(x=L/3\), measured from the left opening. The pipe's first six normal modes are excited individually at their exact resonance frequencies, all with nonzero amplitudes. A second sensor measures longitudinal air-particle displacement at the same position. Determine the lowest positive resonance frequency that the microphone cannot detect, whether the displacement sensor can detect that mode, and the number of interior pressure nodes in that mode.
ⓐ. \(240\,\text{Hz}\); displacement sensor detects the mode; three interior pressure nodes
ⓑ. \(360\,\text{Hz}\); displacement sensor cannot detect the mode; two interior pressure nodes
ⓒ. \(360\,\text{Hz}\); displacement sensor detects the mode; two interior pressure nodes
ⓓ. \(360\,\text{Hz}\); displacement sensor detects the mode; three interior pressure nodes
Correct Answer: \(360\,\text{Hz}\); displacement sensor detects the mode; two interior pressure nodes
Explanation: \(\textbf{Allowed frequencies of the open-open pipe:}\)
For a pipe open at both ends,
\[
f_n=\frac{nv}{2L}
\]
The fundamental frequency is
\[
f_1=\frac{240}{2(1.00)}
\]
\[
f_1=120\,\text{Hz}
\]
Hence,
\[
f_n=120n\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Pressure nodes at the open ends:}\)
Both ideal openings are excess-pressure nodes.
For the \(n\)th normal mode, a suitable pressure-amplitude factor is
\[
P_n(x)\propto\sin\left(\frac{n\pi x}{L}\right)
\]
A microphone at a pressure node records no pressure oscillation from that mode.
\(\textbf{Finding which modes are invisible at the microphone:}\)
At \(x=L/3\),
\[
P_n(L/3)\propto\sin\left(\frac{n\pi}{3}\right)
\]
This factor vanishes when
\[
\frac{n\pi}{3}=j\pi
\]
Therefore,
\[
n=3j
\]
The lowest positive invisible mode is the third harmonic.
\(\textbf{Its resonance frequency:}\)
For \(n=3\),
\[
f_3=3f_1
\]
\[
f_3=3(120)
\]
\[
f_3=360\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Condition recorded by the displacement sensor:}\)
Pressure nodes correspond to longitudinal-displacement antinodes in an ideal stationary sound wave.
For the third harmonic, a suitable displacement spatial factor is
\[
S_3(x)\propto\cos\left(\frac{3\pi x}{L}\right)
\]
At \(x=L/3\),
\[
S_3(L/3)\propto\cos\pi
\]
\[
\cos\pi=-1
\]
Its magnitude is maximum.
Thus, the displacement sensor detects strong motion even though the pressure microphone is silent.
\(\textbf{Counting the interior pressure nodes:}\)
For the third harmonic, pressure nodes occur at
\[
x=0,\quad\frac L3,\quad\frac{2L}{3},\quad L
\]
The endpoints are excluded from the requested count.
Therefore, there are two interior pressure nodes.
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The microphone's failure to detect a resonance does not mean that the pipe cannot support that frequency.
The sensor may simply occupy a node of the measured physical quantity.
Because pressure and longitudinal displacement have complementary node-antinode patterns, replacing the microphone with a displacement sensor can reveal the same mode strongly.
The normal-mode geometry therefore determines which harmonics are visible to a sensor at a particular position.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
f=360\,\text{Hz},\qquad \text{displacement sensor detects the mode},\qquad N_{\mathrm{interior,\ pressure}}=2
\]
503. A long uniform string is fixed at both ends and vibrates simultaneously in its second and fifth normal modes. At a position \(x=L/4\), the two modes have equal nonzero local displacement amplitudes \(a=1.5\,\text{cm}\). The fundamental frequency is \(20\,\text{Hz}\). At \(t=0\), the two local displacement contributions are exactly in phase at their positive extremes. The same two normal modes also exist at \(x=L/2\), with their respective spatial factors determined by the fixed-end conditions. Determine the first positive instant when the resultant displacement at \(x=L/4\) becomes zero due to equal and opposite mode contributions, the two individual contributions at that instant, and which mode is detectable at the midpoint.
ⓐ. First cancellation at \(1/280\,\text{s}\); contributions \(+a\cos(2\pi/7)\) and \(-a\cos(2\pi/7)\); fifth mode only at the midpoint
ⓑ. First cancellation at \(1/140\,\text{s}\); contributions \(+a\cos(2\pi/7)\) and \(-a\cos(2\pi/7)\); fifth mode only at the midpoint
ⓒ. First cancellation at \(1/140\,\text{s}\); contributions \(+a\cos(2\pi/7)\) and \(-a\cos(2\pi/7)\); second mode only at the midpoint
ⓓ. First cancellation at \(1/140\,\text{s}\); both contributions are individually zero; fifth mode only at the midpoint
Correct Answer: First cancellation at \(1/280\,\text{s}\); contributions \(+a\cos(2\pi/7)\) and \(-a\cos(2\pi/7)\); fifth mode only at the midpoint
Explanation: \(\textbf{Local oscillation frequencies of the two modes:}\)
For a fixed-fixed string,
\[
f_n=nf_1
\]
With \(f_1=20\,\text{Hz}\),
\[
f_2=40\,\text{Hz},\qquad f_5=100\,\text{Hz}
\]
The corresponding angular frequencies are
\[
\omega_2=80\pi,\qquad\omega_5=200\pi\quad\text{rad s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Local superposition at the first sensor:}\)
The two mode contributions have equal positive amplitudes and begin at positive extremes.
Therefore, their local displacements are
\[
y_2=a\cos(80\pi t)
\]
\[
y_5=a\cos(200\pi t)
\]
Their sum is
\[
y=a[\cos(80\pi t)+\cos(200\pi t)]
\]
\(\textbf{Factorising the local displacement:}\)
Using the cosine sum identity,
\[
y=2a\cos(140\pi t)\cos(60\pi t)
\]
Cancellation occurs whenever either cosine factor is zero.
\(\textbf{Finding the earliest positive cancellation:}\)
The first zero of \(\cos(140\pi t)\) occurs when
\[
140\pi t=\frac{\pi}{2}
\]
\[
t=\frac1{280}\,\text{s}
\]
The first zero of \(\cos(60\pi t)\) is at
\[
t=\frac1{120}\,\text{s}
\]
Since \(1/280\lt 1/120\), the earliest cancellation is
\[
t_{\mathrm{first}}=\frac1{280}\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Individual displacements at that instant:}\)
For the second harmonic,
\[
80\pi t=\frac{2\pi}{7}
\]
Therefore,
\[
y_2=a\cos\left(\frac{2\pi}{7}\right)
\]
For the fifth harmonic,
\[
200\pi t=\frac{5\pi}{7}
\]
Hence,
\[
y_5=a\cos\left(\frac{5\pi}{7}\right)
\]
\[
y_5=-a\cos\left(\frac{2\pi}{7}\right)
\]
The contributions cancel while each remains nonzero.
\(\textbf{Checking the midpoint's spatial factors:}\)
For a string fixed at both ends,
\[
S_n(x)\propto\sin\left(\frac{n\pi x}{L}\right)
\]
At \(x=L/2\),
\[
S_2(L/2)\propto\sin\pi=0
\]
\[
S_5(L/2)\propto\sin\frac{5\pi}{2}=1
\]
Thus, the midpoint sensor detects the fifth mode but not the second.
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
At the first sensor, two different normal-mode frequencies combine to produce occasional zero-displacement instants.
At the earliest such instant, the two modes have equal and opposite nonzero displacements rather than each passing through equilibrium.
The midpoint acts as a spatial filter because it is a node of one mode but not of the other.
The earliest local cancellation occurs when the two mode contributions have equal magnitudes and opposite signs, although neither contribution is individually zero.
The midpoint is a permanent node of the second harmonic but an antinode of the fifth harmonic.
Thus, cancellation at the first sensor does not imply cancellation at the midpoint.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{t_{\mathrm{first}}=\frac1{280}\,\text{s},\qquad y_2=+a\cos\frac{2\pi}{7},\quad y_5=-a\cos\frac{2\pi}{7}}
\]
504. Two sound sources generate finite sinusoidal wave trains. Source P emits \(100\,\text{Hz}\) sound for \(0.50\,\text{s}\), while source Q emits \(104\,\text{Hz}\) sound for the same duration. Both begin at \(t=0\). The propagation distances to a microphone are \(16.0\,\text{m}\) and \(24.0\,\text{m}\), respectively. Sound travels at \(320\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). The received pressure amplitudes are equal to \(p_0\), and each emission begins with a sine phase of zero. Ignore reflections and attenuation. Determine the interval when both trains overlap at the microphone, the first two instants of maximum resultant amplitude within that interval, and the resultant amplitude at \(t=0.325\,\text{s}\).
ⓐ. Overlap \(0.050\lt t\lt 0.550\,\text{s}\); maxima at \(0.175\) and \(0.425\,\text{s}\); amplitude zero at \(0.325\,\text{s}\)
ⓑ. Overlap \(0.075\lt t\lt 0.550\,\text{s}\); maxima at \(0.200\) and \(0.450\,\text{s}\); amplitude \(2p_0\) at \(0.325\,\text{s}\)
ⓒ. Overlap \(0.075\lt t\lt 0.550\,\text{s}\); maxima at \(0.200\) and \(0.450\,\text{s}\); amplitude zero at \(0.325\,\text{s}\)
ⓓ. Overlap \(0.075\lt t\lt 0.575\,\text{s}\); maxima at \(0.200\) and \(0.450\,\text{s}\); amplitude zero at \(0.325\,\text{s}\)
Correct Answer: Overlap \(0.075\lt t\lt 0.550\,\text{s}\); maxima at \(0.200\) and \(0.450\,\text{s}\); amplitude zero at \(0.325\,\text{s}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Propagation delays of the two sound trains:}\)
The path lengths are
\[
d_P=16.0\,\text{m},\qquad d_Q=24.0\,\text{m}
\]
Using \(v=320\,\text{m s}^{-1}\),
\[
\tau_P=\frac{16.0}{320}=0.050\,\text{s}
\]
\[
\tau_Q=\frac{24.0}{320}=0.075\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Intervals during which each train reaches the microphone:}\)
Both sources emit for \(0.50\,\text{s}\).
Thus, P's signal arrives during
\[
0.050\lt t\lt 0.550\,\text{s}
\]
Q's signal arrives during
\[
0.075\lt t\lt 0.575\,\text{s}
\]
The overlap is the intersection of these intervals:
\[
0.075\lt t\lt 0.550\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Received pressure phases during overlap:}\)
Each source signal has zero initial sine phase at emission.
At the microphone,
\[
p_P=p_0\sin[2\pi(100)(t-0.050)]
\]
\[
p_Q=p_0\sin[2\pi(104)(t-0.075)]
\]
The phase of Q relative to P, measured in cycles, is
\[
\frac{\delta(t)}{2\pi}
=104(t-0.075)-100(t-0.050)
\]
Simplifying,
\[
\frac{\delta(t)}{2\pi}=4t-2.8
\]
\(\textbf{Finding the first constructive-interference instant:}\)
The resultant amplitude is maximum when the phase difference is an integer number of cycles.
Therefore,
\[
4t-2.8=j
\]
where \(j\) is an integer.
The earliest solution inside the overlap interval corresponds to \(j=-2\):
\[
4t-2.8=-2
\]
\[
t=0.200\,\text{s}
\]
The next maximum corresponds to \(j=-1\):
\[
4t-2.8=-1
\]
\[
t=0.450\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Amplitude at the intermediate observation:}\)
At \(t=0.325\,\text{s}\),
\[
\frac{\delta}{2\pi}=4(0.325)-2.8
\]
\[
\frac{\delta}{2\pi}=-1.5
\]
Thus, the waves differ by an odd multiple of \(\pi\) radians.
For two equal pressure amplitudes,
\[
R=2p_0\left|\cos\frac{\delta}{2}\right|
\]
Therefore,
\[
R(0.325)=0
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The sound sources start simultaneously, but their unequal path lengths delay their received wave trains by different amounts.
Their different frequencies cause the relative phase to evolve during the interval of simultaneous reception.
Consequently, the beat maxima depend on both emission phases and propagation delays.
The microphone observes complete cancellation at the specified intermediate time because the two equal-amplitude contributions are then in opposition.
Outside the overlap interval, ordinary two-wave beats cannot occur because only one train is present.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{0.075\lt t\lt 0.550\,\text{s},\qquad t_{\max,1}=0.200\,\text{s},\quad t_{\max,2}=0.450\,\text{s},\qquad R(0.325\,\text{s})=0}
\]
505. A uniform string is fixed at \(x=0\) and \(x=L\). A narrow transverse driver is attached to the string at one selected position and applies a small periodic force. Assume the driver can effectively excite a particular standing-wave mode only if the point of attachment has nonzero displacement amplitude in that mode. The driver is first attached at \(x=L/2\) and is then moved to \(x=L/3\). The driver frequency can be adjusted to any permitted normal-mode frequency, and its attachment does not alter the ideal string properties. Consider the following statements.
Statement I: With the driver at \(L/2\), the second harmonic cannot be effectively excited, but the third harmonic can.
Statement II: With the driver at \(L/3\), the third harmonic cannot be effectively excited, but the second harmonic can.
Statement III: The fourth harmonic cannot be effectively excited from either of the two driver positions.
Statement IV: A failure to excite a mode from one attachment position proves that the mode's resonance frequency is not allowed by the two fixed endpoints.
Statement V: Moving the driver changes which mode shapes couple to the applied force, without necessarily changing the natural frequencies of the string.
Which combination is correct?
ⓐ. Statements II, III and V only
ⓑ. Statements I, II, III and V only
ⓒ. Statements I, III and IV only
ⓓ. Statements I, II and V only
Correct Answer: Statements I, II and V only
Explanation: The spatial displacement factor for the \(n\)th mode of a string fixed at both ends is \(\sin(n\pi x/L)\). A point-force driver placed at a displacement node of a mode cannot effectively excite that mode under the stipulated coupling model. At the midpoint, the second-harmonic spatial factor is \(\sin\pi=0\), whereas the third-harmonic factor is \(\sin(3\pi/2)\), which is nonzero. Statement I is therefore correct. At one-third of the string length, the third-harmonic spatial factor is \(\sin\pi=0\), while the second-harmonic factor is \(\sin(2\pi/3)\), which is nonzero. Statement II is correct. For the fourth harmonic, the spatial factor vanishes at the midpoint because \(\sin2\pi=0\). However, at \(x=L/3\), it is \(\sin(4\pi/3)\), which is nonzero. Thus, the fourth harmonic can be excited from the second attachment position, and Statement III is false. A resonance frequency may be allowed even when a particular point driver has no coupling to that mode. The allowed natural frequencies depend on the wave speed, length and endpoint constraints, not on whether a chosen driver happens to be placed at a node. Statement IV is false. Moving the driver changes its coupling to different spatial patterns without changing the ideal normal-mode frequencies. Statement V is correct. Therefore, the correct combination is I, II and V.
506. Two electronic sources at \(x=0\) emit equal-amplitude sound waves of frequencies \(500\,\text{Hz}\) and \(506\,\text{Hz}\). The waves propagate together through the same nondispersive medium. Their phases coincide at the source at \(t=0\), and both sources have been operating continuously for a sufficiently long time to establish the sound field. Two microphones are positioned at \(x=0\) and \(x=15.0\,\text{m}\). A time-synchronised recording shows that the beat-envelope pattern measured at the second microphone is delayed by \(0.050\,\text{s}\) relative to the pattern at the first microphone. Determine the sound speed, the spatial distance between successive beat-envelope maxima at one instant, and the time interval from an envelope maximum to the next minimum at either microphone.
ⓐ. Speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); spatial maxima separation \(25\,\text{m}\); maximum-to-minimum interval \(1/12\,\text{s}\)
ⓑ. Speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); spatial maxima separation \(50\,\text{m}\); maximum-to-minimum interval \(1/12\,\text{s}\)
ⓒ. Speed \(150\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); spatial maxima separation \(25\,\text{m}\); maximum-to-minimum interval \(1/6\,\text{s}\)
ⓓ. Speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); spatial maxima separation \(50\,\text{m}\); maximum-to-minimum interval \(1/6\,\text{s}\)
Correct Answer: Speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); spatial maxima separation \(50\,\text{m}\); maximum-to-minimum interval \(1/12\,\text{s}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Interpreting the delay of the complete beat pattern:}\)
Both sound waves propagate at the same speed in the nondispersive medium.
Therefore, their combined pattern at the second microphone is a delayed copy of the pattern at the first.
The microphones are separated by
\[
\Delta x=15.0\,\text{m}
\]
The measured delay is
\[
\Delta t=0.050\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Recovering the propagation speed:}\)
\[
v=\frac{\Delta x}{\Delta t}
\]
Substituting,
\[
v=\frac{15.0}{0.050}
\]
\[
v=300\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Temporal beat frequency:}\)
The two frequencies are
\[
f_1=500\,\text{Hz},\qquad f_2=506\,\text{Hz}
\]
The beat frequency is
\[
f_b=|f_2-f_1|
\]
\[
f_b=6.0\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Temporal spacing between successive envelope maxima:}\)
\[
T_b=\frac1{f_b}
\]
\[
T_b=\frac16\,\text{s}
\]
The next envelope minimum lies halfway between consecutive maxima.
Therefore,
\[
\Delta t_{\max\to\min}=\frac{T_b}{2}
\]
\[
\Delta t_{\max\to\min}=\frac1{12}\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Spatial variation of the relative phase:}\)
For two waves travelling in the same direction,
\[
\delta(x,t)=(k_2-k_1)x-(\omega_2-\omega_1)t
\]
Their wave-number difference has magnitude
\[
|\Delta k|=\frac{2\pi f_b}{v}
\]
Successive spatial envelope maxima correspond to a relative-phase change of \(2\pi\).
Thus,
\[
|\Delta k|\Delta x_{\mathrm{beat}}=2\pi
\]
\[
\Delta x_{\mathrm{beat}}=\frac v{f_b}
\]
Substituting,
\[
\Delta x_{\mathrm{beat}}=\frac{300}{6.0}
\]
\[
\Delta x_{\mathrm{beat}}=50\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The beat pattern itself propagates through the common medium, so the measured delay between microphones supplies the sound speed.
The beat frequency is determined by the difference between the two sound frequencies.
This temporal frequency difference also produces a spatial envelope whose maxima are separated by the distance travelled during one beat period.
The distance between maxima is therefore twice the distance between a maximum and its nearest minimum.
The spatial minima move with time; they are not permanent stationary-wave nodes.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{v=300\,\text{m s}^{-1},\qquad \Delta x_{\mathrm{beat}}=50\,\text{m},\qquad \Delta t_{\max\to\min}=\frac1{12}\,\text{s}}
\]
507. Two small-angle pendulums P and Q have equal bob masses and are placed side by side in a location where \(g=\pi^2\,\text{m s}^{-2}\). Their effective lengths are \(1.00\,\text{m}\) and \(1.1025\,\text{m}\), respectively. The horizontal displacements of their bobs are observed through an optical arrangement that adds the two displacement signals algebraically. Both pendulums have equal horizontal displacement amplitudes \(A\) and are released together from their positive displacement extremes at \(t=0\). Assume each executes undamped SHM. Determine the time periods of P and Q, the beat period of the resultant signal, and the first positive instant at which its slowly varying amplitude envelope vanishes.
ⓐ. Pendulum periods \(2.0\,\text{s}\) and \(2.10\,\text{s}\); beat period \(42\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(21\,\text{s}\)
ⓑ. Pendulum periods \(2.0\,\text{s}\) and \(2.10\,\text{s}\); beat period \(21\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(10.5\,\text{s}\)
ⓒ. Pendulum periods \(2.0\,\text{s}\) and \(2.05\,\text{s}\); beat period \(82\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(41\,\text{s}\)
ⓓ. Pendulum periods \(2.0\,\text{s}\) and \(2.10\,\text{s}\); beat period \(42\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(42\,\text{s}\)
Correct Answer: Pendulum periods \(2.0\,\text{s}\) and \(2.10\,\text{s}\); beat period \(42\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(21\,\text{s}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Time period of pendulum P:}\)
For sufficiently small angular displacement,
\[
T=2\pi\sqrt{\frac Lg}
\]
For P,
\[
T_P=2\pi\sqrt{\frac{1.00}{\pi^2}}
\]
\[
T_P=2.0\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Time period of pendulum Q:}\)
The effective length of Q is
\[
L_Q=1.1025\,\text{m}
\]
Notice that
\[
1.1025=(1.05)^2
\]
Therefore,
\[
T_Q=2\pi\sqrt{\frac{1.1025}{\pi^2}}
\]
\[
T_Q=2.10\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Frequencies of the pendulums:}\)
\[
f_P=\frac1{T_P}=\frac12\,\text{Hz}
\]
For Q,
\[
f_Q=\frac1{2.10}
\]
\[
f_Q=\frac{10}{21}\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Frequency difference in the combined optical signal:}\)
Both displacement signals have equal amplitudes and begin in phase.
Their superposition exhibits a slowly varying amplitude envelope.
The beat frequency is
\[
f_b=|f_P-f_Q|
\]
Substituting,
\[
f_b=\frac12-\frac{10}{21}
\]
\[
f_b=\frac{21-20}{42}
\]
\[
f_b=\frac1{42}\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Beat period:}\)
\[
T_b=\frac1{f_b}
\]
\[
T_b=42\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{First disappearance of the resultant amplitude:}\)
The individual displacements may be written as
\[
x_P=A\cos(2\pi f_Pt)
\]
\[
x_Q=A\cos(2\pi f_Qt)
\]
Using the cosine addition identity,
\[
x_P+x_Q=2A\cos[\pi(f_P-f_Q)t]\cos[\pi(f_P+f_Q)t]
\]
The amplitude envelope first vanishes when
\[
\pi(f_P-f_Q)t=\frac{\pi}{2}
\]
Therefore,
\[
t_{\mathrm{first\ zero}}=\frac1{2f_b}
\]
\[
t_{\mathrm{first\ zero}}=21\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The two pendulums have slightly different lengths, so their SHM frequencies differ slightly.
Their optical displacement signals therefore move into and out of phase over a much longer time than either individual oscillation period.
Complete envelope cancellation occurs halfway between consecutive beat maxima because their amplitudes are equal.
This optical superposition is mathematically analogous to the beats produced by two nearby sound frequencies.
The individual pendulums continue oscillating even when the combined displacement signal vanishes.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{T_P=2.0\,\text{s},\qquad T_Q=2.10\,\text{s},\qquad T_b=42\,\text{s},\qquad t_{\mathrm{first\ zero}}=21\,\text{s}}
\]
508. Two independent resonators are exposed to the same acoustic field. Resonator P is a stretched string fixed at both ends, with length \(0.50\,\text{m}\), linear mass density \(0.010\,\text{kg m}^{-1}\), and tension \(121\,\text{N}\). Resonator Q is an ideal organ pipe closed at one end, with length \(0.75\,\text{m}\). Initially, Q contains air at \(300\,\text{K}\), where sound speed is \(240\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). The string vibrates in its fourth harmonic and the pipe in its fifth harmonic. The air in Q is heated without changing the pipe geometry, while the string properties remain constant. Determine the temperature at which the two selected harmonics have equal frequencies, the initial frequency difference, and the number of interior displacement nodes in each resonator at the matching condition.
ⓐ. Temperature \(363\,\text{K}\); initial frequency difference \(40\,\text{Hz}\); string has three interior nodes and pipe has two
ⓑ. Temperature \(363\,\text{K}\); initial frequency difference \(40\,\text{Hz}\); string has four interior nodes and pipe has five
ⓒ. Temperature \(330\,\text{K}\); initial frequency difference \(40\,\text{Hz}\); string has three interior nodes and pipe has two
ⓓ. Temperature \(363\,\text{K}\); initial frequency difference \(20\,\text{Hz}\); string has three interior nodes and pipe has two
Correct Answer: Temperature \(363\,\text{K}\); initial frequency difference \(40\,\text{Hz}\); string has three interior nodes and pipe has two
Explanation: \(\textbf{Wave speed on the fixed string:}\)
For transverse waves,
\[
v_P=\sqrt{\frac F\mu}
\]
Substituting,
\[
v_P=\sqrt{\frac{121}{0.010}}
\]
\[
v_P=110\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Frequency of the selected string mode:}\)
The fourth harmonic frequency is
\[
f_{4,P}=\frac{4v_P}{2L_P}
\]
Substituting,
\[
f_{4,P}=\frac{4(110)}{2(0.50)}
\]
\[
f_{4,P}=440\,\text{Hz}
\]
The string properties remain unchanged, so this frequency stays fixed.
\(\textbf{Initial fifth-harmonic frequency of the closed-open pipe:}\)
For an ideal closed-open pipe, the fifth harmonic is allowed.
Its frequency is
\[
f_{5,Q}=\frac{5v_Q}{4L_Q}
\]
At \(300\,\text{K}\),
\[
f_{5,Q}=\frac{5(240)}{4(0.75)}
\]
\[
f_{5,Q}=400\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Initial frequency difference:}\)
\[
\Delta f_i=|440-400|
\]
\[
\Delta f_i=40\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Required sound speed for matching resonances:}\)
The pipe's fifth harmonic must reach \(440\,\text{Hz}\).
Therefore,
\[
440=\frac{5v_f}{4(0.75)}
\]
Rearranging,
\[
v_f=\frac{4(0.75)(440)}5
\]
\[
v_f=264\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Temperature needed for the speed change:}\)
For the same ideal gas,
\[
v\propto\sqrt T
\]
Thus,
\[
\frac{T_f}{300}=\left(\frac{264}{240}\right)^2
\]
\[
T_f=300(1.10)^2
\]
\[
T_f=363\,\text{K}
\]
\(\textbf{Displacement-node counts at the matching frequencies:}\)
The fourth harmonic of a fixed-fixed string contains four half-wavelength loops.
Its number of interior displacement nodes is
\[
N_P=4-1=3
\]
The fifth harmonic of a closed-open pipe contains five quarter-wavelength segments.
It has a displacement node at the closed endpoint and two additional interior displacement nodes.
Thus,
\[
N_Q=2
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The string frequency depends on tension, linear density, length and harmonic number.
The pipe frequency instead changes with the speed of sound in its air column.
Heating allows the pipe's fifth harmonic to approach the unchanging fourth harmonic of the string.
The two modes can have equal numerical frequencies despite their different wave types, boundary conditions and numbers of interior displacement nodes.
Frequency equality does not imply that the two stationary-wave patterns are geometrically identical.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{T_f=363\,\text{K},\qquad \Delta f_i=40\,\text{Hz},\qquad N_P=3,\quad N_Q=2}
\]
509. A stretched uniform string has one perfectly fixed endpoint and one ideally free transverse endpoint. Its length is \(0.60\,\text{m}\), and its linear mass density is \(0.020\,\text{kg m}^{-1}\). A frequency sweep reveals three successive resonance frequencies of \(75\,\text{Hz}\), \(125\,\text{Hz}\) and \(175\,\text{Hz}\), with no other resonances between them. Determine the fundamental frequency, string tension and number and positions of interior displacement nodes in the mode resonating at \(125\,\text{Hz}\).
ⓐ. Fundamental \(50\,\text{Hz}\); tension \(288\,\text{N}\); one interior node at \(0.30\,\text{m}\)
ⓑ. Fundamental \(25\,\text{Hz}\); tension \(72\,\text{N}\); two interior nodes at \(0.24\,\text{m}\) and \(0.48\,\text{m}\)
ⓒ. Fundamental \(25\,\text{Hz}\); tension \(72\,\text{N}\); four interior nodes at \(0.12\), \(0.24\), \(0.36\) and \(0.48\,\text{m}\)
ⓓ. Fundamental \(25\,\text{Hz}\); tension \(144\,\text{N}\); two interior nodes at \(0.24\,\text{m}\) and \(0.48\,\text{m}\)
Correct Answer: Fundamental \(25\,\text{Hz}\); tension \(72\,\text{N}\); two interior nodes at \(0.24\,\text{m}\) and \(0.48\,\text{m}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Allowed frequencies for mixed endpoint conditions:}\)
The fixed end is a displacement node, whereas the ideal free end is a displacement antinode.
The allowed standing-wave lengths contain odd numbers of quarter wavelengths.
Thus, the resonance frequencies are
\[
f_h=hf_1,\qquad h=1,3,5,\ldots
\]
\(\textbf{Inferring the fundamental from consecutive resonances:}\)
Successive allowed odd harmonics differ by twice the fundamental frequency.
Therefore,
\[
\Delta f=2f_1
\]
From the measurements,
\[
\Delta f=125-75
\]
\[
\Delta f=50\,\text{Hz}
\]
Hence,
\[
f_1=25\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Identifying the observed harmonic numbers:}\)
\[
\frac{75}{25}=3,\qquad
\frac{125}{25}=5,\qquad
\frac{175}{25}=7
\]
The observed resonances are the third, fifth and seventh harmonics.
\(\textbf{Propagation speed from the mixed-boundary fundamental:}\)
For a fixed-free string,
\[
f_1=\frac{v}{4L}
\]
Therefore,
\[
v=4Lf_1
\]
Substituting,
\[
v=4(0.60)(25)
\]
\[
v=60\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Determining string tension:}\)
\[
v=\sqrt{\frac F\mu}
\]
Thus,
\[
F=\mu v^2
\]
\[
F=0.020(60)^2
\]
\[
F=72\,\text{N}
\]
\(\textbf{Displacement-node positions in the fifth harmonic:}\)
The \(125\,\text{Hz}\) resonance is the fifth harmonic.
Its wavelength satisfies
\[
L=\frac{5\lambda}{4}
\]
Therefore,
\[
\lambda=\frac{4(0.60)}5
\]
\[
\lambda=0.48\,\text{m}
\]
Starting from the fixed node at \(x=0\), subsequent nodes are separated by \(\lambda/2\).
Thus,
\[
x_1=\frac{\lambda}{2}=0.24\,\text{m}
\]
\[
x_2=\lambda=0.48\,\text{m}
\]
The right endpoint at \(x=0.60\,\text{m}\) is an antinode.
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The observed resonance spacing is twice the fundamental because mixed fixed-free boundary conditions permit only odd harmonics.
This differs from the frequency spacing of a fixed-fixed string.
Once the fundamental is identified, the wave speed and tension follow from the string properties.
The fifth harmonic contains two interior displacement nodes, not four, because its five quarter-wavelength segments are separated by alternating nodes and antinodes.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{f_1=25\,\text{Hz},\qquad F=72\,\text{N},\qquad x_{\mathrm{interior\ nodes}}=0.24,\ 0.48\,\text{m}}
\]
510. Two plane sinusoidal sound waves of equal individual time-averaged intensity \(2.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\) arrive at a microphone through the same medium and in the same propagation direction. Initially, their frequencies are \(500\,\text{Hz}\) and \(504\,\text{Hz}\), so they produce beats. The microphone's intensity measurement averages over many rapid sound oscillations but over a time short compared with one beat period. It can therefore track the slowly varying intensity envelope. The second source is subsequently adjusted to \(500\,\text{Hz}\), and its relative phase is held fixed at \(\pi/2\). The received individual amplitudes remain unchanged. Determine the original beat frequency, its maximum and minimum envelope intensities, its average intensity over a complete beat period, and the constant intensity after the frequency adjustment.
ⓐ. Beat frequency \(4.0\,\text{Hz}\); envelope limits \(8.0\) and \(0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); beat-averaged intensity \(4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); final constant intensity \(4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\)
ⓑ. Beat frequency \(4.0\,\text{Hz}\); envelope limits \(4.0\) and \(0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); beat-averaged intensity \(2.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); final constant intensity \(4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\)
ⓒ. Beat frequency \(4.0\,\text{Hz}\); envelope limits \(8.0\) and \(0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); beat-averaged intensity \(8.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); final constant intensity \(8.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\)
ⓓ. Beat frequency \(2.0\,\text{Hz}\); envelope limits \(8.0\) and \(0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); beat-averaged intensity \(4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); final constant intensity zero
Correct Answer: Beat frequency \(4.0\,\text{Hz}\); envelope limits \(8.0\) and \(0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); beat-averaged intensity \(4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\); final constant intensity \(4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Frequency difference producing the original beats:}\)
\[
f_b=|f_2-f_1|
\]
\[
f_b=|504-500|
\]
\[
f_b=4.0\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Intensity relation for equal-amplitude waves with a specified relative phase:}\)
Let the individual pressure amplitude of each wave be \(p_0\).
Their separate time-averaged intensities are equal:
\[
I_1=I_2=I_0=2.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}
\]
For a relative phase difference \(\delta\), the combined intensity averaged over the rapid carrier oscillations is
\[
I(\delta)=I_1+I_2+2\sqrt{I_1I_2}\cos\delta
\]
Thus,
\[
I(\delta)=4.0+4.0\cos\delta
\]
\(\textbf{Maximum and minimum beat-envelope intensities:}\)
At maximum reinforcement,
\[
\cos\delta=+1
\]
Therefore,
\[
I_{\max}=4.0+4.0
\]
\[
I_{\max}=8.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}
\]
At maximum opposition,
\[
\cos\delta=-1
\]
Therefore,
\[
I_{\min}=4.0-4.0
\]
\[
I_{\min}=0
\]
\(\textbf{Average intensity over one complete beat period:}\)
Because the relative phase sweeps uniformly through a complete cycle during one beat period,
\[
\langle\cos\delta\rangle_{\mathrm{beat}}=0
\]
Hence,
\[
\langle I\rangle_{\mathrm{beat}}=I_1+I_2
\]
\[
\langle I\rangle_{\mathrm{beat}}=4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}
\]
\(\textbf{Intensity after establishing equal frequencies:}\)
After the adjustment, both sound frequencies are \(500\,\text{Hz}\).
The relative phase is fixed at
\[
\delta=\frac{\pi}{2}
\]
Thus,
\[
I_f=4.0+4.0\cos\frac{\pi}{2}
\]
\[
I_f=4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
Interfering sound-wave intensities cannot generally be added without accounting for the relative pressure phase.
During beats, the relative phase changes continuously, causing the short-time averaged intensity to vary between complete cancellation and maximum reinforcement.
When averaged over an entire beat cycle, the phase-dependent interference term vanishes.
After the frequencies become equal, the relative phase is stationary and the beat modulation disappears.
The chosen phase difference of \(\pi/2\) makes the new constant intensity equal to the previous beat-cycle average, although the two time histories are different.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{f_b=4.0\,\text{Hz},\qquad I_{\max}=8.0\,\text{W m}^{-2},\quad I_{\min}=0,\qquad \langle I\rangle=I_f=4.0\,\text{W m}^{-2}}
\]
511. A resonance tube has an ideal rigidly closed lower end and an ideally open upper end. Its effective air-column length \(L\) can be reduced by raising the water level. End correction is neglected, and sound speed is \(320\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). An electronic source continuously excites the third harmonic of the air column as its length is varied. Initially, the column is \(0.80\,\text{m}\) long. A separate stable tuning fork produces \(320\,\text{Hz}\), and the sound from the pipe's third harmonic combines with the tuning-fork sound to produce beats. As the water level rises, the beats first disappear. The water level then rises further until \(20\) beats per second are heard. Determine the two air-column lengths at these events and the amount by which the water level rises between them.
ⓐ. First length \(0.75\,\text{m}\); second length \(12/17\,\text{m}\); additional rise \(3/68\,\text{m}\)
ⓑ. First length \(0.75\,\text{m}\); second length \(0.80\,\text{m}\); additional rise \(0.05\,\text{m}\)
ⓒ. First length \(0.80\,\text{m}\); second length \(12/17\,\text{m}\); additional rise \(8/85\,\text{m}\)
ⓓ. First length \(0.75\,\text{m}\); second length \(12/17\,\text{m}\); additional rise \(3/34\,\text{m}\)
Correct Answer: First length \(0.75\,\text{m}\); second length \(12/17\,\text{m}\); additional rise \(3/68\,\text{m}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Frequency of the initially excited pipe mode:}\)
An ideal closed-open pipe supports odd harmonics.
For its third harmonic,
\[
f_3=\frac{3v}{4L}
\]
Initially,
\[
v=320\,\text{m s}^{-1},\qquad L_i=0.80\,\text{m}
\]
Therefore,
\[
f_{3,i}=\frac{3(320)}{4(0.80)}
\]
\[
f_{3,i}=300\,\text{Hz}
\]
The tuning fork operates at \(320\,\text{Hz}\), so the initial beat frequency is \(20\,\text{Hz}\).
\(\textbf{How raising the water level changes resonance frequency:}\)
The water surface acts as the closed end of the air column.
Raising it shortens the column.
Since
\[
f_3\propto\frac1L
\]
the third-harmonic frequency rises as the water level rises.
\(\textbf{Length at which beats first disappear:}\)
Beats disappear when the pipe's excited frequency equals the fork frequency:
\[
f_3=320\,\text{Hz}
\]
Therefore,
\[
320=\frac{3(320)}{4L_1}
\]
Rearranging,
\[
L_1=\frac{3(320)}{4(320)}
\]
\[
L_1=0.75\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Frequency after further shortening:}\)
The pipe's frequency continues increasing as the water level rises.
To obtain a beat frequency of \(20\,\text{Hz}\) again,
\[
|f_3-320|=20
\]
The possible values are \(300\,\text{Hz}\) and \(340\,\text{Hz}\).
Because the pipe is now shorter than at frequency agreement, its resonance must be above \(320\,\text{Hz}\).
Thus,
\[
f_3=340\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Second air-column length:}\)
\[
340=\frac{3(320)}{4L_2}
\]
Therefore,
\[
L_2=\frac{960}{1360}
\]
\[
L_2=\frac{12}{17}\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Additional rise of the water level:}\)
Raising the water level reduces air-column length.
Thus,
\[
\Delta h=L_1-L_2
\]
Substituting,
\[
\Delta h=\frac34-\frac{12}{17}
\]
\[
\Delta h=\frac{51-48}{68}
\]
\[
\Delta h=\frac3{68}\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The tuning fork supplies a fixed reference frequency, while the pipe's resonant frequency increases as the effective air column becomes shorter.
The beat rate first falls to zero when the two frequencies match.
Further shortening moves the pipe frequency above the reference, making beats reappear.
The second air-column length must therefore be smaller than the length at frequency agreement.
The problem combines the closed-open harmonic condition with the absolute-difference nature of beat frequency.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{L_1=0.75\,\text{m},\qquad L_2=\frac{12}{17}\,\text{m},\qquad \Delta h=\frac3{68}\,\text{m}}
\]
512. A string of length \(1.00\,\text{m}\), fixed at both ends, supports transverse waves at \(80\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). It vibrates simultaneously in its second and third normal modes. At \(x=L/4\), the two mode contributions each have local displacement amplitude \(2.0\,\text{cm}\) and are both at their positive displacement extremes at \(t=0\). Assume undamped linear superposition. Determine the smallest period of repetition of the combined displacement at \(x=L/4\), the first positive instant when its slowly varying amplitude envelope becomes zero, and the simultaneous displacement at \(x=L/2\). Assume each individual mode has the conventional fixed-end spatial factor \(\sin(n\pi x/L)\).
ⓐ. Repetition period \(0.025\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(0.0025\,\text{s}\); midpoint displacement \(+2\sqrt2\,\text{cm}\)
ⓑ. Repetition period \(0.0125\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(0.0025\,\text{s}\); midpoint displacement zero
ⓒ. Repetition period \(0.025\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(0.0125\,\text{s}\); midpoint displacement \(+2\sqrt2\,\text{cm}\)
ⓓ. Repetition period \(0.025\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(0.0125\,\text{s}\); midpoint displacement \(-2\sqrt2\,\text{cm}\)
Correct Answer: Repetition period \(0.025\,\text{s}\); first envelope zero at \(0.0125\,\text{s}\); midpoint displacement \(+2\sqrt2\,\text{cm}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Frequencies of the two standing-wave modes:}\)
The fundamental frequency is
\[
f_1=\frac{v}{2L}
\]
Substituting,
\[
f_1=\frac{80}{2(1.00)}
\]
\[
f_1=40\,\text{Hz}
\]
Thus, the excited frequencies are
\[
f_2=80\,\text{Hz},\qquad f_3=120\,\text{Hz}
\]
\(\textbf{Displacement at the first sensor:}\)
The two contributions at \(x=L/4\) have equal positive local amplitudes and begin at positive extremes.
Therefore,
\[
y_2=2.0\cos(160\pi t)\quad\text{cm}
\]
\[
y_3=2.0\cos(240\pi t)\quad\text{cm}
\]
Their resultant is
\[
y=2.0[\cos(160\pi t)+\cos(240\pi t)]\quad\text{cm}
\]
Using the cosine sum identity,
\[
y=4.0\cos(200\pi t)\cos(40\pi t)\quad\text{cm}
\]
\(\textbf{Smallest repetition period of the actual displacement:}\)
The component frequencies are \(80\) and \(120\,\text{Hz}\).
Their greatest common frequency divisor is
\[
\gcd(80,120)=40\,\text{Hz}
\]
Thus, the smallest positive period after which both components repeat their initial phases is
\[
T_{\mathrm{repeat}}=\frac1{40}
\]
\[
T_{\mathrm{repeat}}=0.025\,\text{s}
\]
\(\textbf{First zero of the slowly varying amplitude envelope:}\)
The nonnegative envelope is
\[
R(t)=4.0|\cos(40\pi t)|\quad\text{cm}
\]
Its first positive zero occurs when
\[
40\pi t=\frac{\pi}{2}
\]
Therefore,
\[
t_{\mathrm{envelope\ zero}}=\frac1{80}
\]
\[
t_{\mathrm{envelope\ zero}}=0.0125\,\text{s}
\]
The carrier cosine also passes through zero at other earlier instants, but those are not zeros of the amplitude envelope.
\(\textbf{Recovering the third-mode amplitude over the full string:}\)
The third-mode standing-wave displacement can be written as
\[
y_3(x,t)=A_3\sin\left(\frac{3\pi x}{L}\right)\cos(240\pi t)
\]
At \(x=L/4\),
\[
\sin\frac{3\pi}{4}=\frac1{\sqrt2}
\]
The local amplitude there is \(2.0\,\text{cm}\).
Therefore,
\[
\frac{A_3}{\sqrt2}=2.0\,\text{cm}
\]
\[
A_3=2\sqrt2\,\text{cm}
\]
\(\textbf{Evaluating the midpoint at the envelope-zero instant:}\)
For the second mode,
\[
\sin\left(\frac{2\pi(L/2)}{L}\right)=\sin\pi=0
\]
Thus, the midpoint receives no second-mode displacement contribution.
For the third mode,
\[
\sin\left(\frac{3\pi(L/2)}{L}\right)=\sin\frac{3\pi}{2}=-1
\]
At \(t=0.0125\,\text{s}\),
\[
240\pi t=240\pi(0.0125)=3\pi
\]
Therefore,
\[
y(L/2,0.0125)=(2\sqrt2)(-1)\cos3\pi
\]
\[
y(L/2,0.0125)=+2\sqrt2\,\text{cm}
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The displacement at the first sensor is a sum of two harmonics of the same string.
Its complete waveform repeats after the period shared by both harmonic oscillations.
The amplitude envelope has a different characteristic timescale controlled by the frequency difference.
At the first envelope-zero instant, the two contributions cancel at \(L/4\), but the entire string is not necessarily straight.
At the midpoint, the second mode has a permanent displacement node while the third mode does not.
The midpoint therefore continues oscillating and has the calculated nonzero displacement when the first sensor's contributions cancel.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{T_{\mathrm{repeat}}=0.025\,\text{s},\qquad t_{\mathrm{first\ envelope\ zero}}=0.0125\,\text{s},\qquad y(L/2,0.0125)=+2\sqrt2\,\text{cm}}
\]
513. Two ideal gases P and Q are maintained at the same absolute temperature. The ratio of specific heats and molar mass of P are \(\gamma_P=7/5\) and \(M_P=28\,\text{g mol}^{-1}\), while those of Q are \(\gamma_Q=5/3\) and \(M_Q=4\,\text{g mol}^{-1}\). The speed of a small-amplitude sound wave in P is \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). Identical sources generate sound of frequency \(600\,\text{Hz}\) separately in the two gases. Subsequently, the equilibrium pressures of both gases are doubled isothermally, without changing their compositions. Assume ideal-gas behaviour and adiabatic sound propagation. Determine the initial sound speed in Q, the ratio of wavelengths \(\lambda_Q/\lambda_P\), and whether either wavelength changes after the pressure increase.
ⓐ. Speed in Q \(500\sqrt3\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength ratio \(5/\sqrt3\); neither wavelength changes
ⓑ. Speed in Q \(500\sqrt3\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength ratio \(\sqrt3/5\); both wavelengths become half
ⓒ. Speed in Q \(300\sqrt{5/3}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength ratio \(\sqrt{5/3}\); neither wavelength changes
ⓓ. Speed in Q \(500\sqrt3\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength ratio \(5/\sqrt3\); both wavelengths increase by \(\sqrt2\)
Correct Answer: Speed in Q \(500\sqrt3\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength ratio \(5/\sqrt3\); neither wavelength changes
Explanation: \(\textbf{Sound-speed dependence on gas composition:}\)
For an ideal gas undergoing small adiabatic sound disturbances,
\[
v=\sqrt{\frac{\gamma RT}{M}}
\]
Here \(M\) must be expressed consistently in the speed relation.
The gases have equal absolute temperatures, so the common factors \(R\) and \(T\) cancel in their speed ratio.
\(\textbf{Comparing the two gases:}\)
\[
\frac{v_Q}{v_P}
=\sqrt{\frac{\gamma_Q/M_Q}{\gamma_P/M_P}}
\]
Substituting the supplied values,
\[
\frac{v_Q}{v_P}
=\sqrt{\frac{(5/3)/4}{(7/5)/28}}
\]
\[
\frac{v_Q}{v_P}
=\sqrt{\frac{5/12}{1/20}}
\]
\[
\frac{v_Q}{v_P}
=\sqrt{\frac{25}{3}}
\]
\[
\frac{v_Q}{v_P}=\frac5{\sqrt3}
\]
\(\textbf{Sound speed in Q:}\)
Using \(v_P=300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\),
\[
v_Q=300\left(\frac5{\sqrt3}\right)
\]
\[
v_Q=500\sqrt3\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Comparing the wavelengths:}\)
Both sound sources operate at
\[
f=600\,\text{Hz}
\]
The travelling-wave relation is
\[
\lambda=\frac vf
\]
Therefore,
\[
\frac{\lambda_Q}{\lambda_P}
=\frac{v_Q}{v_P}
\]
\[
\frac{\lambda_Q}{\lambda_P}=\frac5{\sqrt3}
\]
As a direct check,
\[
\lambda_P=\frac{300}{600}=0.50\,\text{m}
\]
\[
\lambda_Q=\frac{500\sqrt3}{600}
=\frac{5\sqrt3}{6}\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Effect of doubling the equilibrium pressures:}\)
For an ideal gas,
\[
P=\rho\frac{RT}{M}
\]
At unchanged temperature and composition, doubling equilibrium pressure doubles equilibrium density.
The adiabatic bulk modulus is
\[
B=\gamma P
\]
It also doubles.
Consequently,
\[
v'=\sqrt{\frac{2B}{2\rho}}
\]
\[
v'=v
\]
The source frequencies remain \(600\,\text{Hz}\), so neither wavelength changes.
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
Sound speed depends on the elastic response relative to the inertia of the medium.
Different molar masses and ratios of specific heats therefore produce different sound speeds even at the same temperature.
For ideal gases at fixed temperature and composition, an isothermal increase in equilibrium pressure does not independently change sound speed.
The travelling-wave wavelengths consequently remain fixed when the driving frequencies are unchanged.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{v_Q=500\sqrt3\,\text{m s}^{-1},\qquad
\frac{\lambda_Q}{\lambda_P}=\frac5{\sqrt3},\qquad
\lambda'_P=\lambda_P,\quad\lambda'_Q=\lambda_Q}
\]
514. A right-travelling sinusoidal longitudinal sound wave propagates through a uniform fluid of equilibrium density \(\rho=2.0\,\text{kg m}^{-3}\) and sound speed \(v=200\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). Its longitudinal particle displacement is
\[
s(x,t)=a\sin(kx-\omega t)
\]
where \(a=0.50\,\text{mm}\) and the frequency is \(100\,\text{Hz}\). For small disturbances, the excess pressure satisfies \(p'=-B\,\partial s/\partial x\), where \(B=\rho v^2\). Determine the excess pressure and longitudinal particle velocity at \(x=0,t=0\), and identify whether the fluid at this point is instantaneously compressed or rarefied.
ⓐ. Excess pressure \(+40\pi\,\text{Pa}\); particle velocity \(+0.10\pi\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); compression
ⓑ. Excess pressure \(-40\pi\,\text{Pa}\); particle velocity \(-0.10\pi\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); rarefaction
ⓒ. Excess pressure \(-40\pi\,\text{Pa}\); particle velocity \(+0.10\pi\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); rarefaction
ⓓ. Excess pressure \(+40\pi\,\text{Pa}\); particle velocity \(-0.10\pi\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); compression
Correct Answer: Excess pressure \(-40\pi\,\text{Pa}\); particle velocity \(-0.10\pi\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); rarefaction
Explanation: \(\textbf{Wave parameters from the medium and source:}\)
The sound speed and frequency determine wavelength:
\[
\lambda=\frac vf
\]
\[
\lambda=\frac{200}{100}
\]
\[
\lambda=2.0\,\text{m}
\]
Therefore,
\[
k=\frac{2\pi}{\lambda}=\pi\,\text{rad m}^{-1}
\]
\[
\omega=2\pi f=200\pi\,\text{rad s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Bulk modulus of the fluid:}\)
The given acoustic relation is
\[
v=\sqrt{\frac B\rho}
\]
Hence,
\[
B=\rho v^2
\]
\[
B=2.0(200)^2
\]
\[
B=8.0\times10^4\,\text{Pa}
\]
\(\textbf{Pressure disturbance from spatial compression:}\)
For the longitudinal displacement,
\[
s=a\sin(kx-\omega t)
\]
the spatial displacement gradient is
\[
\frac{\partial s}{\partial x}
=ak\cos(kx-\omega t)
\]
Therefore,
\[
p'=-Bak\cos(kx-\omega t)
\]
At \(x=0,t=0\), the cosine factor equals one.
\[
p'(0,0)=-(8.0\times10^4)(0.50\times10^{-3})(\pi)
\]
\[
p'(0,0)=-40\pi\,\text{Pa}
\]
\(\textbf{Longitudinal velocity of the fluid particle:}\)
Particle velocity is the time derivative of displacement at fixed position:
\[
u=\frac{\partial s}{\partial t}
\]
\[
u=-a\omega\cos(kx-\omega t)
\]
At the specified event,
\[
u(0,0)=-(0.50\times10^{-3})(200\pi)
\]
\[
u(0,0)=-0.10\pi\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Compression or rarefaction:}\)
A negative excess pressure represents pressure below the equilibrium value.
Equivalently, the positive spatial displacement gradient indicates that neighbouring fluid elements are momentarily farther apart than in equilibrium.
The point is therefore in a rarefaction.
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The sound disturbance travels towards positive \(x\), although the fluid particle at the observation point is moving towards negative \(x\).
These directions need not agree at every phase of a longitudinal progressive wave.
The sign of pressure is determined by the spatial displacement gradient rather than by the displacement value itself.
At the specified event the particle displacement is zero, yet pressure and particle velocity are both nonzero.
The result separates propagation direction, instantaneous particle motion and local compression state.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
p'(0,0)=-40\pi\,\text{Pa},\qquad
u(0,0)=-0.10\pi\,\text{m s}^{-1},\qquad
\text{rarefaction}
\]
515. Four mechanical-wave experiments are performed under idealised conditions. Experiment P sends a small-amplitude longitudinal pressure pulse through the bulk of a liquid. Experiment Q attempts to send a bulk transverse shear pulse through the same ideal liquid. Experiment R sends a transverse displacement pulse along a stretched string. Experiment S sends a longitudinal compression pulse through a homogeneous elastic solid. Consider the following statements.
Statement I: P is possible because a liquid can provide the bulk elastic restoring response needed for longitudinal pressure disturbances.
Statement II: Q is possible because the liquid has inertia, even though its equilibrium shear rigidity is zero.
Statement III: R is possible because string tension provides a transverse restoring force when the string is locally displaced.
Statement IV: S is possible because an elastic solid can resist longitudinal deformation.
Statement V: Both R and S require their material particles to travel continuously with the pulse at its propagation speed.
Which combination is correct?
ⓐ. Statements I, II, III and IV only
ⓑ. Statements I, III and IV only
ⓒ. Statements II, III and V only
ⓓ. Statements I, III, IV and V only
Correct Answer: Statements I, III and IV only
Explanation: Mechanical waves require both inertia and a restoring mechanism supplied by the medium. A liquid can resist compression through its bulk modulus, so a longitudinal pressure disturbance can propagate through it. Statement I is correct. An ideal liquid at rest does not provide the shear rigidity required for the propagation of a bulk transverse shear wave. Possessing mass and inertia alone does not supply a transverse restoring force. Statement II is therefore incorrect. A stretched string is a different mechanical arrangement because its existing tension provides the restoring force for small transverse displacements. Its particles can oscillate perpendicular to the propagation direction while the disturbance travels along the string, making Statement III correct. An elastic solid can resist compression and extension, allowing longitudinal mechanical disturbances to propagate through its bulk. Statement IV is correct. In ordinary small-amplitude mechanical wave propagation, medium particles oscillate about their equilibrium positions rather than continuously accompanying the disturbance over long distances. This distinction applies to both the transverse string pulse and the longitudinal disturbance in the solid. Statement V is therefore incorrect. The possibility of a particular mechanical-wave mode depends on the available elastic response as well as inertia. The comparison does not rule out surface waves on liquids, which involve different restoring mechanisms and are not equivalent to the bulk transverse shear wave described in Q.
516. A source at \(x=0\) generates a single transverse disturbance on a long, uniform string extending towards positive \(x\). The wave speed is \(5.0\,\text{m s}^{-1}\). Initially, the string is undisturbed. The source displacement increases uniformly from zero to \(+4.0\,\text{cm}\) during the first \(0.20\,\text{s}\), then decreases uniformly to zero during the next \(0.40\,\text{s}\). Thereafter, the source remains at equilibrium. Assume the disturbance propagates without distortion and without reflection. At \(t=1.00\,\text{s}\), determine the occupied spatial interval, the position of maximum displacement, and the signed transverse particle velocities at \(x=3.0\,\text{m}\) and \(x=4.5\,\text{m}\).
ⓐ. Interval \(2.0\lt x\lt 5.0\,\text{m}\); peak at \(x=4.0\,\text{m}\); velocities \(+10\) and \(-20\,\text{cm s}^{-1}\)
ⓑ. Interval \(2.0\lt x\lt 5.0\,\text{m}\); peak at \(x=3.0\,\text{m}\); velocities \(+10\) and \(-20\,\text{cm s}^{-1}\)
ⓒ. Interval \(0\lt x\lt 3.0\,\text{m}\); peak at \(x=1.0\,\text{m}\); velocities \(-10\) and zero
ⓓ. Interval \(2.0\lt x\lt 5.0\,\text{m}\); peak at \(x=4.0\,\text{m}\); velocities \(-10\) and \(+20\,\text{cm s}^{-1}\)
Correct Answer: Interval \(2.0\lt x\lt 5.0\,\text{m}\); peak at \(x=4.0\,\text{m}\); velocities \(-10\) and \(+20\,\text{cm s}^{-1}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Relating the source history to a travelling disturbance:}\)
Let \(s(t)\) describe the displacement imposed by the source.
The disturbance propagates towards positive \(x\), so the displacement at a later position is the source displacement evaluated at its retarded time:
\[
y(x,t)=s\left(t-\frac{x}{v}\right)
\]
This relation applies after the disturbance has reached the specified position.
\(\textbf{Locating the leading and trailing edges:}\)
The earliest disturbance was emitted at \(t_e=0\).
At the observation instant, its position is
\[
x_{\mathrm{leading}}=v(1.00-0)
\]
\[
x_{\mathrm{leading}}=5.0\,\text{m}
\]
The last nonzero displacement was emitted at \(t_e=0.60\,\text{s}\).
Its position is
\[
x_{\mathrm{trailing}}=v(1.00-0.60)
\]
\[
x_{\mathrm{trailing}}=2.0\,\text{m}
\]
Therefore, the travelling disturbance occupies
\[
2.0\lt x\lt 5.0\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Position of the displacement peak:}\)
The source reached its positive displacement maximum at
\[
t_e=0.20\,\text{s}
\]
This feature travels without distortion.
Its position at \(t=1.00\,\text{s}\) is
\[
x_{\mathrm{peak}}=5.0(1.00-0.20)
\]
\[
x_{\mathrm{peak}}=4.0\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Particle velocity at }x=3.0\,\textbf{m:}\)
The retarded time is
\[
t_r=1.00-\frac{3.0}{5.0}
\]
\[
t_r=0.40\,\text{s}
\]
At the source, this time lies on the falling part of its displacement history.
The displacement falls from \(+4.0\,\text{cm}\) to zero over \(0.40\,\text{s}\).
Its rate of change is
\[
\frac{ds}{dt}=\frac{0-4.0}{0.40}
\]
\[
\frac{ds}{dt}=-10\,\text{cm s}^{-1}
\]
Thus, the particle at \(x=3.0\,\text{m}\) is moving downwards at
\[
u_y=-10\,\text{cm s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Particle velocity at }x=4.5\,\textbf{m:}\)
Here,
\[
t_r=1.00-\frac{4.5}{5.0}
\]
\[
t_r=0.10\,\text{s}
\]
This belongs to the source's rising displacement interval.
The corresponding velocity is
\[
u_y=\frac{4.0-0}{0.20}
\]
\[
u_y=+20\,\text{cm s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
A spatial snapshot of a travelling pulse records different stages of the source's earlier motion.
The leading part of the pulse represents the earliest source events, while the trailing part represents later events.
Consequently, the spatial pulse profile reverses the chronological ordering of the source's rise and fall.
The particle velocities at two positions can therefore have opposite signs even though the entire disturbance travels in one direction.
The wave speed governs propagation of the waveform, whereas the source's displacement rate determines the local transverse particle velocities.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{2.0\lt x\lt 5.0\,\text{m},\qquad x_{\mathrm{peak}}=4.0\,\text{m},\qquad u_y(3.0)=-10\,\text{cm s}^{-1},\quad u_y(4.5)=+20\,\text{cm s}^{-1}}
\]
517. A longitudinal sound wave propagates through a homogeneous fluid of equilibrium density \(1.5\,\text{kg m}^{-3}\). A laboratory system simultaneously records the excess pressure \(p'\) and longitudinal particle velocity \(u\) at several phases of the wave. The measurements give the following straight-line relationship:
The horizontal axis is signed longitudinal particle velocity \(u\), measured in \(\text{m s}^{-1}\), with positive direction along the positive \(x\)-axis. The vertical axis is signed excess pressure \(p'\), measured in pascals. The plotted line passes through the origin and through the points \((u=-0.20,\ p'=+90)\) and \((u=+0.10,\ p'=-45)\). The wave is a single progressive plane sound wave, not a superposition of oppositely travelling waves.
The sound frequency is \(150\,\text{Hz}\). Determine the direction of wave propagation, sound speed, fluid bulk modulus and wavelength.
ⓐ. Propagation towards positive \(x\); speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); modulus \(1.35\times10^5\,\text{Pa}\); wavelength \(2.0\,\text{m}\)
ⓑ. Propagation towards negative \(x\); speed \(450\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); modulus \(3.04\times10^5\,\text{Pa}\); wavelength \(3.0\,\text{m}\)
ⓒ. Propagation towards negative \(x\); speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); modulus \(1.35\times10^5\,\text{Pa}\); wavelength \(2.0\,\text{m}\)
ⓓ. Propagation towards negative \(x\); speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); modulus \(9.0\times10^4\,\text{Pa}\); wavelength \(2.0\,\text{m}\)
Correct Answer: Propagation towards negative \(x\); speed \(300\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); modulus \(1.35\times10^5\,\text{Pa}\); wavelength \(2.0\,\text{m}\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Interpreting the sign of the pressure-velocity graph:}\)
For a progressive plane sound wave travelling towards positive \(x\), excess pressure and longitudinal particle velocity have the same sign:
\[
p'=\rho v u
\]
For a wave travelling towards negative \(x\), their signs are opposite:
\[
p'=-\rho v u
\]
The observed graph has a negative slope, so the wave propagates towards negative \(x\).
\(\textbf{Slope of the measured graph:}\)
The slope is
\[
m=\frac{\Delta p'}{\Delta u}
\]
Using the two stated points,
\[
m=\frac{-45-(+90)}{(+0.10)-(-0.20)}
\]
\[
m=\frac{-135}{0.30}
\]
\[
m=-450\,\text{Pa s m}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Recovering the wave speed:}\)
For the stated left-travelling wave,
\[
m=-\rho v
\]
Therefore,
\[
v=\frac{|m|}{\rho}
\]
Substituting,
\[
v=\frac{450}{1.5}
\]
\[
v=300\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Determining the bulk modulus:}\)
The propagation speed in a fluid obeys
\[
v=\sqrt{\frac B\rho}
\]
Thus,
\[
B=\rho v^2
\]
\[
B=1.5(300)^2
\]
\[
B=1.35\times10^5\,\text{Pa}
\]
\(\textbf{Determining the wavelength:}\)
The source frequency is
\[
f=150\,\text{Hz}
\]
Using the travelling-wave relation,
\[
\lambda=\frac vf
\]
\[
\lambda=\frac{300}{150}
\]
\[
\lambda=2.0\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Checking the propagation-direction inference:}\)
At the recorded point with
\[
p'=+90\,\text{Pa}
\]
the particle velocity is
\[
u=-0.20\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
A positive pressure disturbance accompanied by negative particle velocity is consistent with a compression propagating towards negative \(x\).
The sign relation is therefore consistent with both measured points.
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The graph slope contains more information than the magnitude of pressure or particle velocity alone.
Its sign identifies propagation direction, while its magnitude gives the product of equilibrium density and sound speed.
Knowing density then permits wave speed and the bulk modulus to be recovered.
The independently specified frequency determines wavelength.
The method relies on observing a single progressive plane wave; an arbitrary superposition of two opposite travelling waves would not generally obey the same single-slope relation.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\text{direction }-x,\qquad v=300\,\text{m s}^{-1},\qquad B=1.35\times10^5\,\text{Pa},\qquad \lambda=2.0\,\text{m}
\]
518. A sinusoidal transverse wave travels along an ideal uniform string. The string tension is \(64\,\text{N}\) and its linear mass density is \(0.040\,\text{kg m}^{-1}\). A source initially generates waves at \(20\,\text{Hz}\). The following changes are investigated separately, with all unmentioned properties unchanged.
Statement I: Doubling the source frequency on the original string halves the wavelength but leaves propagation speed unchanged.
Statement II: Increasing the tension to \(144\,\text{N}\), without changing linear density or source frequency, increases the wave speed by a factor \(3/2\).
Statement III: Increasing both tension and linear mass density by the same positive factor leaves the propagation speed unchanged.
Statement IV: Doubling the source amplitude at unchanged tension, density and frequency doubles the propagation speed.
Statement V: If the wave enters a second uniform string section where its speed is greater, the transmitted steady-wave frequency increases in the same ratio as speed.
Which combination is correct?
ⓐ. Statements I, II and IV only
ⓑ. Statements II, III and V only
ⓒ. Statements I, III, IV and V only
ⓓ. Statements I, II and III only
Correct Answer: Statements I, II and III only
Explanation: \(\textbf{Governing wave-speed relation:}\)
The wave speed on an ideal stretched string is
\[
v=\sqrt{\frac{F}{\mu}}
\]
where \(F\) is tension and \(\mu\) is linear mass density.
The initially specified string therefore has a definite propagation speed set by its mechanical properties.
A change in source frequency alone does not alter that speed in the nondispersive ideal-string model.
\(\textbf{Frequency and wavelength change:}\)
Since \(v=f\lambda\), doubling frequency requires the wavelength to become half its original value, so Statement I is correct.
When tension rises from \(64\,\text{N}\) to \(144\,\text{N}\) at fixed linear density, the speed ratio is
\[
\frac{v'}v=\sqrt{\frac{144}{64}}=\frac32
\]
\(\textbf{Tension and linear-density comparisons:}\)
Statement II is correct.
If both tension and linear density are multiplied by the same factor, their ratio remains unchanged.
The wave speed therefore remains unchanged, making Statement III correct.
The amplitude of a small transverse displacement affects the magnitude of string-particle motion but does not alter the ideal wave-speed relation.
Doubling amplitude does not double propagation speed, so Statement IV is false.
\(\textbf{Amplitude and boundary transmission:}\)
At a junction between two ideal string sections driven by one steady source, the frequency of the transmitted wave remains equal to the incident frequency.
Speed and wavelength can change across the junction, but frequency continuity is required by the common time dependence at the boundary.
Statement V is therefore false.
The correct interpretation separates source-controlled frequency and amplitude from medium-controlled propagation speed.
519. A right-travelling sinusoidal transverse wave propagates along a uniform string. Its frequency is \(20\,\text{Hz}\). Two detectors P and Q are fixed \(0.15\,\text{m}\) apart, with Q to the right of P. The wave is known to travel from P towards Q. Corresponding upward zero-displacement crossings at the detectors are observed to be separated by \(0.015\,\text{s}\), with Q detecting each identified crossing later. Independent observations establish that this delay is the actual propagation time between detectors and not a delay differing by an integer number of periods. At \(t=0\), particle P is at its positive displacement extreme \(+A\). Determine the wave speed, wavelength and, at that same instant, the displacement of particle Q and direction of its transverse velocity.
ⓐ. Speed \(10\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength \(0.50\,\text{m}\); Q has displacement \(+A\cos(\pi/5)\) and is moving upwards
ⓑ. Speed \(10\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength \(0.50\,\text{m}\); Q has displacement \(-A\cos(2\pi/5)\) and is moving downwards
ⓒ. Speed \(20\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength \(1.00\,\text{m}\); Q has displacement \(+A\cos(3\pi/10)\) and is moving upwards
ⓓ. Speed \(10\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength \(0.50\,\text{m}\); Q has displacement \(-A\cos(2\pi/5)\) and is moving upwards
Correct Answer: Speed \(10\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelength \(0.50\,\text{m}\); Q has displacement \(-A\cos(2\pi/5)\) and is moving upwards
Explanation: \(\textbf{Inferring wave speed from the detector delay:}\)
The detectors are separated by
\[
\Delta x=0.15\,\text{m}
\]
The measured propagation time is
\[
\Delta t=0.015\,\text{s}
\]
Therefore,
\[
v=\frac{\Delta x}{\Delta t}
\]
\[
v=\frac{0.15}{0.015}
\]
\[
v=10\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Recovering wavelength:}\)
The source frequency is
\[
f=20\,\text{Hz}
\]
For a travelling wave,
\[
v=f\lambda
\]
Hence,
\[
\lambda=\frac{10}{20}
\]
\[
\lambda=0.50\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Determining the spatial phase difference:}\)
The wave number is
\[
k=\frac{2\pi}{\lambda}
\]
\[
k=4\pi\,\text{rad m}^{-1}
\]
The phase difference corresponding to the detector separation has magnitude
\[
\Delta\phi=k\Delta x
\]
\[
\Delta\phi=4\pi(0.15)
\]
\[
\Delta\phi=\frac{3\pi}{5}
\]
\(\textbf{Constructing a compatible travelling-wave equation:}\)
Choose the coordinate origin at detector P.
Since P is at its positive displacement extreme at \(t=0\), a suitable equation is
\[
y(x,t)=A\cos(kx-\omega t)
\]
The negative sign before \(\omega t\) represents propagation towards positive \(x\).
At Q, \(x=0.15\,\text{m}\).
Therefore,
\[
y_Q(0)=A\cos\left(\frac{3\pi}{5}\right)
\]
Using the cosine identity,
\[
y_Q(0)=-A\cos\left(\frac{2\pi}{5}\right)
\]
This is not equal to \(-A\cos(\pi/5)\).
\(\textbf{Direction of Q's transverse velocity:}\)
The transverse particle velocity follows from differentiation:
\[
u_y=\frac{\partial y}{\partial t}
\]
\[
u_y=A\omega\sin(kx-\omega t)
\]
At Q and \(t=0\),
\[
u_Q=A\omega\sin\left(\frac{3\pi}{5}\right)
\]
This is positive, so particle Q is moving upwards.
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The measured delay determines propagation speed because the experiment explicitly removes whole-period ambiguity.
The source frequency then fixes the wavelength and spatial phase difference.
At Q, the displacement is negative because its phase lies in the second quadrant.
Its transverse velocity is nevertheless positive, so the particle is moving upwards towards equilibrium.
This distinguishes signed displacement from instantaneous direction of particle motion.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{v=10\,\text{m s}^{-1},\qquad\lambda=0.50\,\text{m},\qquad y_Q(0)=-A\cos\left(\frac{2\pi}{5}\right),\qquad u_Q(0)\gt 0}
\]
520. A student measures a sound wave travelling through an ideal gas at a fixed temperature and obtains a frequency of \(500\,\text{Hz}\). The equilibrium pressure and density are \(P=1.0\times10^5\,\text{Pa}\) and \(\rho=1.25\,\text{kg m}^{-3}\). The gas has ratio of specific heats \(\gamma=1.25\). The student first calculates a speed by treating compression as isothermal, using \(B_{\mathrm{iso}}=P\), and then repeats the calculation using the appropriate adiabatic modulus \(B_{\mathrm{ad}}=\gamma P\). Determine the two calculated speeds, their corresponding wavelengths, and the percentage by which the isothermal estimate underestimates the correct adiabatic speed.
ⓐ. Isothermal \(200\sqrt2\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); adiabatic \(200\sqrt{5/2}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelengths \(2\sqrt2/5\) and \(\sqrt{10}/5\,\text{m}\); underestimate \(20\%\)
ⓑ. Isothermal \(200\sqrt2\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); adiabatic \(200\sqrt{5/2}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelengths \(2\sqrt2/5\) and \(\sqrt{10}/5\,\text{m}\); underestimate \(100(1-2/\sqrt5)\%\)
ⓒ. Isothermal \(200\sqrt2\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); adiabatic \(200\sqrt{5/2}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelengths \(2\sqrt2/5\) and \(\sqrt{10}/5\,\text{m}\); underestimate \(1-1/\sqrt5\) of the correct speed
ⓓ. Isothermal \(200\sqrt2\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); adiabatic \(200\sqrt{5/2}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelengths \(2\sqrt2/5\) and \(\sqrt{10}/5\,\text{m}\); underestimate \(1-\sqrt5/2\) of the correct speed
Correct Answer: Isothermal \(200\sqrt2\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); adiabatic \(200\sqrt{5/2}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\); wavelengths \(2\sqrt2/5\) and \(\sqrt{10}/5\,\text{m}\); underestimate \(100(1-2/\sqrt5)\%\)
Explanation: \(\textbf{Using the isothermal elastic modulus:}\)
The speed in a fluid is
\[
v=\sqrt{\frac B\rho}
\]
Under the student's isothermal assumption,
\[
B_{\mathrm{iso}}=P
\]
Therefore,
\[
v_{\mathrm{iso}}=\sqrt{\frac{1.0\times10^5}{1.25}}
\]
\[
v_{\mathrm{iso}}=\sqrt{80000}
\]
\[
v_{\mathrm{iso}}=200\sqrt2\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
\(\textbf{Using the appropriate adiabatic modulus:}\)
For rapid, small-amplitude sound compression in the ideal gas,
\[
B_{\mathrm{ad}}=\gamma P
\]
Substituting,
\[
B_{\mathrm{ad}}=1.25(1.0\times10^5)
\]
\[
B_{\mathrm{ad}}=1.25\times10^5\,\text{Pa}
\]
Therefore,
\[
v_{\mathrm{ad}}=\sqrt{\frac{1.25\times10^5}{1.25}}
\]
\[
v_{\mathrm{ad}}=\sqrt{100000}
\]
\[
v_{\mathrm{ad}}=100\sqrt{10}\,\text{m s}^{-1}
\]
This is equal to \(200\sqrt{5/2}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\).
\(\textbf{Calculating the wavelengths:}\)
The sound frequency remains
\[
f=500\,\text{Hz}
\]
Thus,
\[
\lambda_{\mathrm{iso}}=\frac{v_{\mathrm{iso}}}{f}
\]
\[
\lambda_{\mathrm{iso}}=\frac{200\sqrt2}{500}
\]
\[
\lambda_{\mathrm{iso}}=\frac{2\sqrt2}{5}\,\text{m}
\]
Similarly,
\[
\lambda_{\mathrm{ad}}=\frac{100\sqrt{10}}{500}
\]
\[
\lambda_{\mathrm{ad}}=\frac{\sqrt{10}}5\,\text{m}
\]
\(\textbf{Fractional underestimate relative to the correct value:}\)
The speed ratio is
\[
\frac{v_{\mathrm{iso}}}{v_{\mathrm{ad}}}
=\frac1{\sqrt\gamma}
\]
\[
\frac{v_{\mathrm{iso}}}{v_{\mathrm{ad}}}
=\frac2{\sqrt5}
\]
The fractional underestimate is
\[
\epsilon=\frac{v_{\mathrm{ad}}-v_{\mathrm{iso}}}{v_{\mathrm{ad}}}
\]
\[
\epsilon=1-\frac2{\sqrt5}
\]
The corresponding percentage is
\[
100\left(1-\frac2{\sqrt5}\right)\%
\]
\[
\epsilon_{\%}\approx10.6\%
\]
\(\textbf{Physical interpretation:}\)
The sound-speed relation uses the appropriate elastic response of the gas during its rapid compression and expansion.
For an ideal gas with \(\gamma\gt 1\), the adiabatic bulk modulus exceeds the isothermal modulus.
Using the smaller isothermal modulus therefore underestimates both speed and wavelength when frequency is fixed.
The fractional error must be calculated relative to the correct adiabatic speed rather than relative to the incorrect estimate.
\(\textbf{Final answer:}\)
\[
\boxed{\begin{gathered}
v_{\mathrm{iso}}=200\sqrt2\,\text{m s}^{-1},\quad
v_{\mathrm{ad}}=100\sqrt{10}\,\text{m s}^{-1}\\
\lambda_{\mathrm{iso}}=\frac{2\sqrt2}{5}\,\text{m},\quad
\lambda_{\mathrm{ad}}=\frac{\sqrt{10}}5\,\text{m}\\
\epsilon_{\%}=100\left(1-\frac2{\sqrt5}\right)\%\approx10.6\%
\end{gathered}}
\]