A transverse wave is represented by y = A(ωt - kx). For what value of the wavelength is the wave…

37 2010 AIPMT-PRE WavesTravelling waves Medium
A transverse wave is represented by $y = A\sin(\omega t - kx)$. For what value of the wavelength is the wave velocity equal to the maximum particle velocity?
A A
B $\frac{\pi A}{2}$
C $\pi A$
D $2\pi A$

Detailed Solution

Wave velocity: $v = \frac{\omega}{k}$
Particle velocity: $v_p = \frac{\partial y}{\partial t} = A\omega\cos(\omega t - kx)$; its maximum value is $A\omega$.
Setting them equal: $\frac{\omega}{k} = A\omega$
$\frac{1}{k} = A$; since $k = \frac{2\pi}{\lambda}$, $\frac{\lambda}{2\pi} = A$
$\lambda = 2\pi A$

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