Wavelength of sound and windspeed

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential effect of wind on the wavelength of sound when both the source and observer are at rest. The conclusion is that the wind will not affect the wavelength, as the compressions and rarifactions are already moving at an additional speed due to the wind. The issue of comparison is also brought up, as well as the potential impact if the source and detector were both moving in still air.
  • #1
nil1996
301
7
Both source and observer are at rest. If the wind blows from source to observer will the wind affect the wavelength of sound??
 
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  • #2
Excellent question: how are attempting to answer it so far?
 
  • #3
i am thinking like if the wind speed is u and sound speed is v then the observer will notice that the sound is at speed v+u. Wave length is the distance between two compressions. The wind is moving the whole medium with the speed u. So i think there will be no change in wavelength as the successive compressions will be both moving at an additional speed u. Is that right??
 
  • #4
I think the issue here is what we are comparing the wavelength to.
The wavelength without the wind perhaps?
And with respect to whome?

So the source makes compressions and rarifactions with period T.
The wind whips them away ... so instead of moving at speed c, they move at speed c+v.
 
  • #5
oh,got it so the wavelength should be (v+c)/f
f = frequency
 
  • #6
The wind takes the first compression made by the source further by c*T before the second compression is released.Right??
 
  • #7
That's what I figured - but it's your work.

What if the air was still but both source and detector were moving?
 

1. What is the relationship between wavelength of sound and windspeed?

The wavelength of sound and windspeed are inversely related. This means that as windspeed increases, the wavelength of sound decreases and vice versa. This can be seen in the Doppler effect, where the pitch of a sound changes as the source moves towards or away from the observer due to changes in windspeed.

2. How does windspeed affect the propagation of sound waves?

Windspeed can greatly impact the propagation of sound waves. Strong winds can cause sound waves to bend and scatter, making it difficult to hear or understand sound. This is why it can be difficult to hear someone speaking in a windy environment.

3. Can windspeed affect the frequency of sound?

Yes, windspeed can affect the frequency of sound. As mentioned earlier, windspeed can cause the Doppler effect, which changes the frequency of sound as the source moves. Additionally, windspeed can also affect the speed of sound, which in turn can impact the frequency of sound waves.

4. How can windspeed impact the loudness of sound?

Windspeed can affect the loudness of sound in two ways. Firstly, strong winds can cause sound waves to disperse, making it harder to hear the sound and decreasing its loudness. Secondly, windspeed can also affect the speed of sound, which can impact the perceived loudness of a sound.

5. Is there a specific range of windspeed that is most conducive for sound propagation?

There is no specific range of windspeed that is ideal for sound propagation. However, moderate winds with speeds between 5-10 mph are generally considered to be the most conducive for sound propagation. Strong winds can cause disruptions and weak winds may not carry sound as effectively.

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