Mathematics (Civil Engineering -1) | 17. Modelling – Vibrating String, Wave Equation by Abraham | Learn Smarter
K12 Students

Academics

AI-Powered learning for Grades 8–12, aligned with major Indian and international curricula.

Professionals

Professional Courses

Industry-relevant training in Business, Technology, and Design to help professionals and graduates upskill for real-world careers.

Games

Interactive Games

Fun, engaging games to boost memory, math fluency, typing speed, and English skills—perfect for learners of all ages.

17. Modelling – Vibrating String, Wave Equation

The chapter focuses on the modeling of vibrating strings using the wave equation, which is imperative in engineering applications involving vibrations. The derivation of the wave equation is presented alongside the method of separation of variables, boundary and initial conditions, and techniques for determining coefficients through Fourier series. Applications in civil engineering are discussed, along with numerical solution techniques for handling complex geometries and boundary conditions.

Enroll to start learning

You’ve not yet enrolled in this course. Please enroll for free to listen to audio lessons, classroom podcasts and take practice test.

Sections

  • 17

    Modelling – Vibrating String, Wave Equation

    This section covers the derivation, analysis, and applications of the wave equation for vibrating strings, essential for understanding structural dynamics.

  • 17.1

    Assumptions For The Vibrating String Model

    This section outlines the fundamental assumptions made in deriving the wave equation for a vibrating string, which is essential for modeling vibrations in engineering applications.

  • 17.2

    Derivation Of The One-Dimensional Wave Equation

    The section delineates the derivation of the one-dimensional wave equation for a vibrating string using Newton's laws and transverse force balance.

  • 17.3

    Boundary And Initial Conditions

    This section discusses the necessary boundary and initial conditions required to solve the wave equation for a vibrating string.

  • 17.4

    Method Of Separation Of Variables

    The method of separation of variables is used to solve the wave equation by assuming a solution can be separated into spatial and temporal components.

  • 17.5

    Determination Of Coefficients Using Fourier Series

    This section explains how to determine the coefficients of a Fourier series for the solution of a vibrating string based on initial conditions.

  • 17.6

    Properties Of The Solution

    In this section, key properties of solutions to the wave equation are discussed, including the principles of superposition, wave propagation, standing waves, and energy conservation.

  • 17.7

    D'alembert’s Solution (Infinite String Case)

    D'Alembert's solution describes the general solution to the wave equation for an infinite string, showcasing how two waves propagate in opposite directions.

  • 17.8

    Applications In Civil Engineering

    This section discusses the vital applications of wave equations in civil engineering, focusing on the modeling of vibrations in various structures.

  • 17.9

    Eigenvalues And Modes Of Vibration

    This section discusses the relationship between eigenvalues and natural modes of vibration in structural systems governed by the wave equation.

  • 17.9.1

    Eigenvalues Λ_n

    This section discusses the eigenvalues associated with the wave equation solutions for vibrating strings, which are critical in determining modes of vibration.

  • 17.10

    Principle Of Superposition And Modal Analysis

    The Principle of Superposition allows complex initial shapes or excitations in vibrating systems to be decomposed into sums of natural modes.

  • 17.11

    Two-Dimensional Wave Equation

    The two-dimensional wave equation models vibrations in real-world structures, extending beyond the one-dimensional case.

  • 17.12

    Energy In A Vibrating String

    This section defines the kinetic and potential energy within a vibrating string and states their conservation in the absence of damping.

  • 17.13

    Effect Of Damping

    Damping plays a crucial role in modifying the dynamic behavior of vibrating systems, affecting their oscillation patterns and energy dissipation.

  • 17.14

    Numerical Solution Techniques

    This section introduces numerical solution techniques for solving the wave equation, emphasizing the Finite Difference Method (FDM) and Finite Element Method (FEM) for complex geometries and boundary conditions.

  • 17.14.1

    Finite Difference Method (Fdm)

    The Finite Difference Method (FDM) is a numerical technique used to approximate solutions of partial differential equations by discretizing both space and time.

  • 17.14.2

    Finite Element Method (Fem)

    The Finite Element Method (FEM) is a numerical technique used to approximate solutions for complex structures and boundary conditions in engineering applications.

  • 17.15

    Real-World Examples And Case Studies

    This section explores real-world applications of wave equations in civil engineering, focusing on structures such as bridges and buildings.

  • 17.16

    Extension To Nonlinear Wave Equations

    This section discusses the emergence of nonlinear effects in wave equations, particularly in real materials during large amplitude oscillations.

  • 17.17

    Challenges In Structural Vibration Analysis

    This section highlights the primary challenges encountered in structural vibration analysis, including material modeling and computational costs.

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • The wave equation is a cruc...
  • Boundary and initial condit...
  • Numerical techniques, such ...

Final Test

Revision Tests