Create Standing Waves with Antinodes at the Ends

In summary, standing waves have nodes at either end, but what would happen if antinodes were at the ends instead? To achieve this, one could look up oscillations of an air column in an open pipe or use a more rigid object like a metal rod. The equations of motion for a vibrating rod would be different from a string, but nodes and anti-nodes would still be observed.
  • #1
huh
15
0
From what I've seen, standing waves (which are really cool looking) have nodes (no displacement) at either end. What would happen if antinodes were at the ends instead of nodes? What could you do to make this happen?
hmmm...
 
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  • #2
Look up oscillations of an air column in an open pipe.

Link: http://www.cord.edu/dept/physics/p128/lecture98_34.html
 
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  • #3
huh said:
What would happen if antinodes were at the ends instead of nodes?

I don't see how this would work with a vibrating string, since there are not enough end points... the air column is a more useful example of standing waves in that respect.
 
  • #4
Obviously you couldn't really do it with strings. The open-ended air column is the best analogy, or just look at half of a string.
 
  • #5
It can be done if you clamp something more rigid like a metal rod in the centre.
 
  • #6
Tie the end of the string loosely to a transverse rod so the loop of string can slide freely along the rod.
 
  • #7
Wow. That's cool. Thanks :)
 
  • #8
Kurdt said:
It can be done if you clamp something more rigid like a metal rod in the centre.

The equations of motion for a vibrating rod are fourth order, so it would be a bit different from a vibrating string. However, you still get to see nodes and anti-nodes.
 

FAQ: Create Standing Waves with Antinodes at the Ends

1. What are standing waves with antinodes at the ends?

Standing waves with antinodes at the ends refer to a type of wave pattern that occurs when two waves with the same frequency and amplitude travel in opposite directions and interfere with each other. This results in nodes (points of no movement) and antinodes (points of maximum movement) at specific locations along the wave.

2. How do you create standing waves with antinodes at the ends?

To create standing waves with antinodes at the ends, you need to have two waves with the same frequency and amplitude traveling in opposite directions and interfering with each other. This can be achieved by using a medium, such as a string or air column, and a source of oscillation, such as a vibrating object or speaker, at both ends of the medium.

3. What are the properties of standing waves with antinodes at the ends?

Standing waves with antinodes at the ends have several distinct properties, including a fixed wavelength, nodes and antinodes at specific locations, and no overall movement of the medium. They also have a characteristic frequency, which is determined by the length of the medium and the speed of the waves.

4. What are the practical applications of standing waves with antinodes at the ends?

Standing waves with antinodes at the ends have various practical applications, including in musical instruments, such as stringed instruments and wind instruments, where they produce distinct harmonics. They are also used in resonance experiments and in medical imaging techniques, such as ultrasound.

5. What factors affect the formation of standing waves with antinodes at the ends?

The formation of standing waves with antinodes at the ends is affected by several factors, including the frequency and amplitude of the waves, the length and properties of the medium, and any external forces or disturbances. These factors can alter the wavelength, frequency, and overall pattern of the standing wave.

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