A transverse wave is incident from string 1 onto string 2. The two strings are under the same tension. Which statements are correct?
Select all that apply

Question

A transverse wave is incident from string 1 onto string 2. The two strings are under the same tension. Which statements are correct?

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

The sign of Aᵣ/Aᵢ = (Z₁−Z₂)/(Z₁+Z₂) determines whether displacement phase reversal occurs. Because Z = √(Tμ), a denser second string gives Z₂ > Z₁ and a negative reflection coefficient, while a lighter second string gives a positive coefficient. The junction must oscillate with one common frequency, so incident, reflected and transmitted frequencies are equal. However, the transmitted speed can change, so the transmitted wavelength can change. Therefore all four statements are correct.