Introduction to Electrodynamics · Problem 9.7

Electromagnetic Waves — David J. Griffiths

Physics · reflection-transmission

Problem

Suppose string 2 is embedded in a viscous medium (such as molasses), which imposes a drag force that is proportional to its (transverse) speed: ΔFdrag=−γ∂f∂tΔz.\Delta F_{\rm drag} = -\gamma \frac{\partial f}{\partial t}\Delta z. (a) Derive the modified wave equation describing the motion of the string. (b) Solve this equation, assuming the string vibrates at the incident frequency ω\omega. That is, look for solutions of the form f~(z,t)=eiωtF~(z)\tilde{f}(z,t) = e^{i\omega t}\tilde{F}(z). (c) Show that the waves are attenuated (that is, their amplitude decreases with increasing zz). Find the characteristic penetration distance, at which the amplitude is 1/e1/e of its original value, in terms of γ\gamma, TT, μ\mu, and ω\omega. (d) If a wave of amplitude AIA_I, phase δI=0\delta_I = 0, and frequency ω\omega is incident from the left (string 1), find the reflected wave's amplitude and phase.

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