Increasing Tension and Frequency on Waves in a String

Increasing Tension in the String

To increase the tension, T, in the string without changing the mass and length, one can use a tuning peg or a capstan. These devices allow you to apply more force to the string, thereby increasing the tension. This increase in tension will directly impact the wave velocity and other variables related to the wave behavior on the string.

Effects of Increasing Tension

When the tension, T, in the string is increased while the frequency remains constant, the wave speed, v, will increase. This is because the wave speed is directly proportional to the tension (v = sqrt.(T/µ)). The increased tension will also lead to a higher value of T. However, the wavelength, λ, and the mass per unit length, µ, will not change as they are independent of tension when mass and length are constant.

Increasing Frequency of Waves

To increase the frequency, f, of the waves on the string in the lab, one can adjust the length of the string or use a device like a variable frequency oscillator. By changing the frequency of the source, you can alter the frequency of the waves traveling through the string without changing its mass or length.

Effects of Increasing Frequency

When the frequency, f, of the waves increases while keeping the tension constant, the wave speed, v, will also increase. However, the wavelength, λ, will decrease as the frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional. This decrease in wavelength is due to the relationship between wave speed, frequency, and wavelength (v = λf). The mass per unit length, µ, and the tension, T, will remain unchanged as they are not affected by changes in frequency.