Calculating Time Elapsed for Reflected Wave to Return

Question:

How much time elapses between when you start shaking the string and when the reflected wave returns to your hand in seconds?

Answer:

The time it takes for the reflected wave to return to your hand depends on the length of the string and the speed of the wave on the string. Let's assume the speed of the wave on the string is v and the length of the string is L.

Explanation:

When you start shaking the string and create a pulse, it travels along the string and reaches the end, where it reflects back towards your hand. The distance the pulse travels is twice the length of the string (2L). The time it takes for the pulse to travel this distance can be calculated using the formula:

Time = Distance / Speed

Since the distance is 2L and the speed is v, the time it takes for the reflected wave to return to your hand is:

Time = 2L / v seconds

Therefore, the time it elapses between when you start shaking the string and when the reflected wave returns to your hand is 2L/v seconds.