A reflected wave on a fixed end is inverted, but does not change shape. A reflected wave on a loose end is not inverted, nor does it change shape.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a wave reflects off a fixed end, it inverts due to the boundary condition that the displacement must be zero at the fixed end. However, the shape of the wave does not change, only its direction. On a loose end, the wave reflects without inversion because the boundary allows for maximum displacement, but like with the fixed end, the shape of the wave remains the same.

A Reflected Wave on a Fixed End Is Inverted, but Does