Physics

Physics

Problem

A wave pulse travels from medium X into medium Y and then immediately into medium Z. The wave speeds are vX=4 m ⁣⋅ ⁣s−1v_X = 4\,\text{m}\!\cdot\!\text{s}^{-1}, vY=2 m ⁣⋅ ⁣s−1v_Y = 2\,\text{m}\!\cdot\!\text{s}^{-1}, and vZ=6 m ⁣⋅ ⁣s−1v_Z = 6\,\text{m}\!\cdot\!\text{s}^{-1}. The two boundaries are only 1 m1\,\text{m} apart, so the pulse reflects from each interface before any part exits medium Y. Which description best represents the pulses that return to medium X? a) Two pulses return; the first is upright and the second is inverted. b) Two pulses return; the first is inverted and the second is upright. c) Only one pulse returns; it is inverted. d) Two pulses return; both are inverted.

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