Can We See Around Corners? How Sound Travels Differently

  • Thread starter aquabum619
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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of diffraction and how it affects our ability to hear and see around corners. Diffraction is the divergence of light or sound waves from their initial line of travel and can depend on factors such as wavelength and the size of obstacles. While smaller wavelengths may not be able to diffract around larger objects, longer wavelengths like sound waves can, allowing us to hear around corners.
  • #1
aquabum619
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Homework Statement



how come we can hear around corners but we can't see around corners?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


because the wall is obstructing the image?
 
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  • #2
It's to do with diffraction of the wave around the object. What do you know about diffraction? What factors do diffraction depend upon?
 
  • #3
Then why is that the wall obstructs the sound?
 
  • #4
Diffraction by definition is the divergence of light from its initial line of travel.
But images can't diffract through walls, right? Diffraction depends on coherent sources of light waves from a monochromatic source. wrt the double slit ex. right?
 
  • #5
Much more general than that. If the wavelength is anywhere close to the obstaces dimensions it will move around it, while small wavelengths are a bb on a brickwall, long wavelengths more like a a blob of jello which will peek around corners.
 
  • #6
Happy 700, doc! Rockets, huh?
 
  • #7
I never even noticed, but thanx, and no new ground here, humanity has a choice between well what we are doing and hedging bets,
 
  • #8
It depends on the wavelenght, alonger wave like sounds "go over" lager objects.
 

1. Can we really see around corners using sound?

Yes, it is possible to see around corners using sound. This is known as acoustic imaging and it works by sending sound waves towards an object and analyzing the waves that are reflected back to the source. By measuring the time it takes for the waves to return and their intensity, scientists can create a visual representation of the object, even if it is around a corner.

2. How is sound able to travel around corners?

Sound travels around corners due to a phenomenon called diffraction. This occurs when sound waves encounter an obstacle, causing them to bend and wrap around it. This allows the sound to reach areas that are not directly in its line of sight, such as around corners.

3. Are there limitations to seeing around corners using sound?

Yes, there are limitations to acoustic imaging. Sound waves have a shorter wavelength compared to light waves, which means they have a harder time penetrating through solid objects. This makes it difficult to see around corners if the object is too thick or dense. Environmental factors such as wind and temperature can also affect the accuracy of acoustic imaging.

4. How is this technology being used in real life?

Acoustic imaging is being used in a variety of applications, such as in medical imaging, where it can be used to see inside the human body without the use of harmful radiation. It is also used in the military for surveillance and reconnaissance purposes. Additionally, it is being explored for potential use in self-driving cars, as it can help detect objects that are not directly in the line of sight.

5. What advancements are being made in this field?

Scientists are constantly working on improving acoustic imaging technology. They are exploring new materials and techniques that can improve the quality and accuracy of the images produced. Additionally, there is ongoing research on how to make this technology more portable and affordable for everyday use.

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