Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]PhysicsWave Motion and Waves on a String
A wire fixed at both its ends is found to vibrate at resonant frequencies of 240 Hz and 320 Hz . If transverse waves travel on this string at a speed of 40 m s ⁻¹ , what is the length of the string?
Options
- A12.5 cm
- B50 cm
- C6.25 cm
- D25 cm
Correct answer
D. 25 cm
Step-by-step solution
For a string fixed at both ends, the resonant frequencies are given by f_n = nv 2L , where n is an integer representing the harmonic number, v is the wave speed, and L is the length of the string. Assuming the given frequencies are consecutive resonant frequencies, their difference gives the fundamental frequency f₁ : f₁ = f_ n+1 - f_n f₁ = 320 Hz - 240 Hz = 80 Hz The fundamental frequency is also given by the formula: f₁ = v 2L Substituting the given values ( f₁ = 80 Hz and v = 40 m s ⁻¹ ): 80 = 40 2L 160L = 40 L