Physics Question from JEE Main 2026 · 21 January, Shift 1

Two strings ($A$, $B$) having linear densities $\mu_A = 2 \times 10^{-4} \, \text{kg/m}$ and, $\mu_B = 4 \times 10^{-4} \, \text{kg/m}$ and lengths $L_A = 2.5 \, \text{m}$ and $L_B = 1.5 \, \text{m}$ respectively are joined. Free ends of $A$ and $B$ are tied to two rigid supports $C$ and $D$, respectively creating a tension of $500 \, \text{N}$ in the wire. Two identical pulses, sent from $C$ and $D$ ends, take time $t_A$ and $t_B$, respectively, to reach the joint. The ratio $t_A/t_B$ is: