The pulse shown is moving in the string toward a fixed end at the wall. After reflection at the wall, which figure correctly represents the pulse?
A) 1
B) 2
C) 3
D) 4
E) 5

Question

The pulse shown is moving in the string toward a fixed end at the wall. After reflection at the wall, which figure correctly represents the pulse?
A) 1 
B) 2 
C) 3 
D) 4 
E) 5

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pulse is moving from a lighter medium (string) to a denser medium (wall). Therefore, the pulse will undergo reflection and inversion at the fixed end. This means that the amplitude will stay the same, but the pulse will be upside down. Only Figure 4 correctly represents an upside down pulse with the same amplitude as the original pulse.

The Pulse Shown Is Moving in the String Toward a Fixed