A 1.6m long string fixed at both ends vibrates at its fundamental frequency... (i)what is this frequency?

For the first part, we consult the formula c=fλ. This tells us that wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency.. ie as one increases the other decreases. This means the lowest(fundamental) frequency goes with the longest wavelength. If you consult a diagram of a vibrating string, you'll see that the greatest wavelength is equal to twice the length of the string.(This is because there must be a node at each end, and is best shown with diagrams).So the wavelength we are looking for is 1.6x2= 3.2m. Since this is a sound wave c=340m/s. All our numbers are in the correct units, so we may proceed, using f=cλ. The answer is f=106.25Hz

MK
Answered by Monique K. Physics tutor

5675 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A car undergoes uniform acceleration from a starting velocity of 10ms^-1 to 20ms^-1 in 10s. Assuming the car's mass is 2000kg, calculate the net force in the direction of the acceleration.


A wire has length l, cross-sectional area a, resistivity p and resistance R. It is compressed to a third of its original length but its volume and resistivity are constant. Show its new resistance is R/9.


State Newton's Law of Gravitation


Describe how a stationary wave is formed and some of its properties.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning