When a transverse pulse traveling along a light rope reaches a boundary where the…
PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Waves Sound and Physical Optics · Waves Sound and Physical Optics
Problem
When a transverse pulse traveling along a light rope reaches a boundary where the rope suddenly becomes much heavier (so the wave speed is lower on the far side), which statement about the reflected pulse is most accurate?
(a) It is not inverted and travels back along the light rope with the same speed as the incident pulse.
(b) It is inverted and travels back along the light rope at a lower speed than the incident pulse.
(c) It is inverted and travels back along the light rope with the same speed as the incident pulse.
(d) It is inverted and travels back along the light rope with the same speed as the incident pulse, but with a larger amplitude than the incident pulse.