A long, light string (segment 1) with mass per unit length μ1 is attached to a heavier string (segment 2) with mass per unit length 4μ1. Both segments are under the same tension. A single upward pulse of amplitude A0 travels along segment 1 toward the junction between the two strings.
(a) Describe what happens to the orientation (upright or inverted) of the reflected pulse when it returns along segment 1. Justify your answer by referring to the relative wave speeds in the two media.
(b) Without performing numerical calculations, rank the amplitudes of the incident, reflected, and transmitted pulses from greatest to least. Provide a qualitative explanation for your ranking.
(c) Compare qualitatively the energies transported by the reflected and transmitted pulses. Explain how the principle of energy conservation constrains the possible distribution of energy between the two pulses.