College Physics : Harmonics and Standing Waves
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for College Physics
All College Physics Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Electromagnetics, Waves, And Optics
Suppose that the fifth harmonic of a standing wave contained within a pipe closed at both ends has a wavelength of 
For this question, we're told that a standing wave is contained within a pipe closed at both ends. We're also given the wavelength for the fifth harmonic, and are asked to find the length of the pipe.
The first step to solve this problem is to use the equation for a pipe closed at both ends.
Since we're told which harmonic the wave is on, as well as its wavelength, we have everything we need to solve for the length of the pipe.
Example Question #1 : Electromagnetics, Waves, And Optics
A 
Each harmonic has a wavelength that behaves according to the equation
Since this is the 5th harmonic, 
Example Question #1 : Harmonics And Standing Waves
A pipe has a length of 
Since the pipe is open at both ends, we can use the equation 
We know from the question that:
When we plug in these values into the frequency equation, we get 
All College Physics Resources
