Two strings (A, B) having linear densities A = 2 10-4 kg/m and B = 4 10-4 kg/m and lengths LA = 2.5 m and LB = 1.5 m respectively are joined. Free ends of A and B are tied to two rigid supports C and D, respectively creating a tension of 500 N in the wire. Two identical pulses, sent from C and D ends, take time t1 and t2, respectively, to reach the joint. The ratio t1/t2 is:
- 1.90
- 1.18
- 1.08
- 1.67
Answer
(2) 1.18
Solution
Speed of a transverse pulse: v = T ; same tension T in both strings.
t = Lv = L T
t1t2 = LALB A B = 2.51.5 2 10-44 10-4
= 53 1 2 = 53 1.414 1.18
Answer: (2)