String oscillations, not parallel to momentum?

In summary, string oscillations are the back-and-forth motion of a string or rope when disturbed from its equilibrium position. They are not directly related to momentum, but the direction and amplitude can be affected by it. String oscillations not parallel to momentum means that the direction of the oscillations does not align with the direction of the initial disturbance. These oscillations can be measured and quantified using methods such as amplitude, frequency, and wavelength. Several factors can affect string oscillations, including length, tension, density, and external factors like air resistance and friction.
  • #1
Spinnor
Gold Member
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I there a simple hand waving explanation why strings "can oscillate in any spatial direction except parallel to momentum" (quote from below). I assume the yellow arrows below represent momentum.

Edit, why not parallel to momentum?

From an interesting read on the electron,

http://motls.blogspot.com/2013/01/evolving-portrait-of-electron.html#disqus_thread

slide24.jpg


Thanks!
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Spinnor said:
why not parallel to momentum?
I think the black line represents the "momentum" and the yellow arrow is the direction of the "orbit", so the closed string is only free to fluctuate in other directions, not in the "main" momentum loop.
 

FAQ: String oscillations, not parallel to momentum?

1. What are string oscillations?

String oscillations refer to the back-and-forth motion of a string or rope when it is disturbed from its equilibrium position. This can be seen in a variety of contexts, such as musical instruments, pendulums, and waves.

2. How are string oscillations related to momentum?

String oscillations are not directly related to momentum, as momentum only applies to objects in motion. However, the direction and amplitude of string oscillations can be affected by the momentum of the object causing the disturbance.

3. What does it mean for string oscillations to be not parallel to momentum?

This means that the direction of the oscillations does not align with the direction of the momentum of the object causing the disturbance. In other words, the string is not moving in the same direction as the object that initially caused it to move.

4. How do we measure or quantify string oscillations?

String oscillations can be measured and quantified using various methods, such as measuring the amplitude (height) of the oscillations, the frequency (number of oscillations per unit time), and the wavelength (distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs).

5. What factors can affect string oscillations not parallel to momentum?

Several factors can affect string oscillations, including the length, tension, and density of the string, as well as the initial force or disturbance that caused the oscillations. Other external factors such as air resistance and friction can also play a role.

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