Wave speed is set by the medium, not the source
- 01
The tempting model
Assuming shaking a rope faster makes the wave travel faster.
- 02
Why it feels right
More vigorous shaking feels like it should send the wave faster.
- 03
Where it breaks · how to catch it
You changed v when only the frequency changed.
- 04
The correct model
v = √(T/μ) for a string — fixed by tension and density. Raising frequency shortens wavelength (v = fλ), not the speed.
- 05
Repair · see it, then test it
worked example You shake a rope twice as fast. What happens to wave speed?
Tempting move
It doubles.
Correct move
Speed is unchanged; wavelength halves.
Test the repair SHM-02 · transferMake a fresh prediction before referring to the worked example.