Transverse Speed of a particle on a wave

In summary, the equation y = 6.0sin(0.012pi*x + 4.9pi*t) represents a transverse wave traveling along a very long string, with x and y expressed in centimeters and t in seconds. To find the maximum transverse speed of a particle in the string, the derivative of y with respect to time must be taken, which is 4.9pi*cos(0.012pi*x + 4.9pi*t). At t=0, the greatest rate of change of y(x,t) would occur at (0,0), so the maximum transverse speed would be 4.9pi cm/s.
  • #1
Oijl
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0

Homework Statement


The equation of a transverse wave traveling along a very long string is given by y = 6.0sin(0.012pi*x + 4.9pi*t), where x and y are expressed in centimeters and t is in seconds.

Find the maximum transverse speed of a particle in the string.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I want the speed, or rate of change of position, or derivative of position. The given equation represents the transverse displacement, so, at t = 0, I would have y' = 6*0.012picos(0.012pi*x). Since y(x, t) is a sine function, the greatest slope would be at (0, 0), so y'(0, 0) would represent the greatest rate of change of y(x, t).

So the maximum transverse speed of a particle in the string would be 6*0.012*pi, correct?

This, however, is not the right answer, so why not?
 
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  • #2
You have to take the derivative with respect to time.
 
  • #3
The speed is the time derivative.
 

Related to Transverse Speed of a particle on a wave

What is the transverse speed of a particle on a wave?

The transverse speed of a particle on a wave refers to the speed at which the particle moves in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the wave's motion. It is a measure of how quickly the particle oscillates up and down as the wave passes through it.

How is the transverse speed of a particle on a wave calculated?

The transverse speed of a particle on a wave is calculated by dividing the wavelength of the wave by the period of the wave. This gives the speed at which the particle moves through one complete cycle of the wave.

What factors can affect the transverse speed of a particle on a wave?

The transverse speed of a particle on a wave can be affected by the frequency and amplitude of the wave. It can also be influenced by the medium through which the wave is traveling, as different materials can have different effects on the speed of the wave and therefore the particle's speed.

Why is the transverse speed of a particle on a wave important to study?

The transverse speed of a particle on a wave is important to study because it can provide insights into the properties of the wave itself. It can also be used to understand how energy is transferred through the wave and how the wave may interact with its surroundings.

How does the transverse speed of a particle on a wave relate to the energy of the wave?

The transverse speed of a particle on a wave is directly related to the energy of the wave. A higher transverse speed means a greater amount of energy is being transferred through the wave. This can be seen in the relationship between the amplitude (height) of a wave and its energy - the higher the amplitude, the greater the energy and therefore the higher the transverse speed of the particles on the wave.

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