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F = ma (Final Problems)
Simple Harmonic Motion
FMA-2015-24 · 2015 F = ma (AAPT)

2015 F = ma Exam — Question 24

24. The speed of a transverse wave on a long cylindrical steel string is given by v = s T M/L, where T is the tension in the string, M is the mass, and L is the length of the string. Ignore any string stiffness, and assume that it does not stretch when tightened. Consider two steel strings of the same length, the first with radius r1 and a second thicker string with radius r2 = 4r1. Each string is tightened to the maximum possible tension without breaking. What is the ratio f1/f2 of the fundamental frequencies of vibration on the two strings?
Source: Question 24, 2015 F = ma Exam, © 2015 American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) and the U.S. Physics Team. Adapted by PhysicsTrainer: reformatted into a separate question and answer choices for online multiple-choice practice; any shared setup from nearby questions is repeated here. Not affiliated with or endorsed by AAPT or the U.S. Physics Team.