Waves on a string: In the figure, which of the curves best represents the variation of wave speed as a function of tension for transverse waves on a stretched string?
A) A
B) B
C) C
D) D
E) E

Question

Waves on a string: In the figure, which of the curves best represents the variation of wave speed as a function of tension for transverse waves on a stretched string? 
A) A 
B) B 
C) C 
D) D 
E) E

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The wave speed on a string is directly proportional to the square root of the tension, according to the equation v = √(T/μ), where T is the tension in the string and μ is the mass per unit length. Curve B shows a linear relationship between wave speed and tension, which is consistent with this equation. The other curves either show no relationship or a non-linear relationship between wave speed and tension.

Waves on a String: in the Figure, Which of the Curves