Practice question
Question
A wave on a string has an amplitude of 0.06 m and a frequency of 30 Hz. What is the maximum transverse
acceleration of a particle?
Explanation
**Wave classification** depends on particle vibration relative to propagation. Longitudinal waves have particle oscillation parallel to propagation, creating compressions and rarefactions as in sound in air; transverse have perpendicular oscillation. Tuning fork generates longitudinal sound because air cannot sustain shear. ω = 2π v = 2π × 30 = 60π rad/s . Max acceleration: aₘₐₓ = a ω² = 0.06 × (60π)² . aₘₐₓ = 0.06 × 3600π² ≈ 21330 m/s² . Using v = fλ and standing-wave condition fₙ = n v/(2L) or v/(4L) as applicable, calculation yields 21330 m/s², illustrating frequency-length-speed interdependence and quantization by boundaries.
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