A pulse of the shape below originates in spring A. The speed of the pulse in this spring is 4.0 m/s. Another spring, B, is connected to spring A. The speed of the pulse in spring B is 2.0 m/s. The “short” end of the original pulse is the right side with the steep decline.
1) Draw a diagram showing the reflected pulse. In your diagram, pay particular attention to the wavelength of the reflected pulse, the amplitude of the pulse, whether or not it is inverted, and in what direction the “short” end of the pulse is facing.
2) Draw a diagram showing the partially transmitted pulse. In your diagram, pay particular attention to the wavelength of the transmitted pulse, the amplitude of the pulse, and in what direction the “short” end of the pulse is facing.
3)Of the quantities, speed, wavelength, frequency, and amplitude, which of these does not change as a wave is partially reflected or partially transmitted?
4)Of the quantities, speed, wavelength, frequency, and amplitude, which of these is always decreased in size as a wave is partially reflected or partially transmitted?
To answer these questions, we need to understand the concepts of reflection and transmission of waves. Here's how you can approach each question:
1) To draw a diagram showing the reflected pulse, you can follow these steps:
a) Draw the original pulse in spring A with the given shape.
b) Since the pulse is reflected, draw another pulse moving in the opposite direction.
c) The wavelength of the reflected pulse will be the same as the original pulse.
d) The amplitude of the reflected pulse will also be the same as the original pulse.
e) The reflected pulse will be inverted, meaning it will have the opposite shape compared to the original pulse.
f) The "short" end of the reflected pulse will be facing the left side with the steep decline.
2) To draw a diagram showing the partially transmitted pulse, you can follow these steps:
a) Draw the original pulse in spring A with the given shape.
b) Draw another pulse moving towards spring B.
c) The wavelength of the transmitted pulse will be the same as the original pulse.
d) The amplitude of the transmitted pulse will be the same as the original pulse.
e) The transmitted pulse will not be inverted, meaning it will maintain the same shape as the original pulse.
f) The "short" end of the transmitted pulse will be facing the right side with the steep decline.
3) The quantity that does not change as a wave is partially reflected or partially transmitted is the frequency. The frequency of a wave remains constant regardless of its reflection or transmission.
4) The quantity that is always decreased in size as a wave is partially reflected or partially transmitted is the amplitude. As the wave encounters a boundary or interface between two media, some of its energy is lost or absorbed, resulting in a decrease in the amplitude of the wave.
By following these steps and understanding the concepts of reflection and transmission, you can answer the given questions accurately.