Solution
ID: past-exam-of-the-mathematics-course-of-the-university-of-oxford/2023/prelims/mathematics-v/6/a/solution
Past exam of the mathematics course of the University of Oxford 2023 Prelims Mathematics V 6 a Solution by
Codex 0 2026-10-25
Use the ideal transverse-motion model of the question: constant tension, small slopes, no bending stiffness, and no transverse body-force term. On a short segment away from , the vertical components of the endpoint tensions are, to first order in , and . Its mass is , since is linear mass density. Newton's second law givesDividing by and taking its limit proves the wave equation on a string on each side of the mass:The string on the right pulls the point mass with vertical component , while the string on the left contributes . HenceThe fixed supports and attachment impose the boundary conditionsTogether with the mass equation, these are the endpoint and matching conditions. The slope can jump at : the jump supplies the mass's vertical acceleration. Requiring the slope to be continuous would incorrectly remove its dynamics.
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