Sound interference homework problem

In summary, the conversation discusses a question about sound interference and the experiment involving two sources A and B placed 2m apart. A girl walking from point X to Y hears points of maximum loudness at P and Q. The goal is to find the distances AQ and BQ using information from the given diagram. The answer is provided as AQ = 12.4m and BQ = 13m. The conversation also mentions the concepts of constructive interference, zero order maximum at P, and first order maximum at Q. The individual tried using similar triangles but it did not lead to finding the lengths. The suggested method is to take AQ as x and BQ as x+ \Delta x and apply equations for constructive interference to solve,
  • #1
r_maths
15
0
Really stuck at this question.

In an experiment on sound interference, two sources A and B are placed 2m apart. As a girl walks from X to Y she hears a point of maximum loudness ar point P and the next at point Q. Using information from the diagram below find distances AQ and BQ.
http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/6814/capturewiz006qq6.jpg

Any help would be welcome. Thanks.

PS. Answers = AQ- 12.4m BQ- 13m
 
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  • #2
Welcome to the PF. One of our rules here is that you must show us some of your own work and thoughts in order for us to help you.

What can you say about constructive interference? What relationship must the two sound waves have at P and again at Q in order for there to be maximum constructive interference?
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF. One of our rules here is that you must show us some of your own work and thoughts in order for us to help you.

What can you say about constructive interference? What relationship must the two sound waves have at P and again at Q in order for there to be maximum constructive interference?

Constructive interference, waves meet in phase.
At P would the zero order maximum.
At Q would be first order maximum.

I tried the similar triangles but that didn't lead to finding the lengths...
http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/4990/capturewiz007my4.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #4
take AQ as x and BQ as [itex]x+ \Delta x [/itex]
Apply equations for Constructive Interference and solve.
Fringe width is PQ.
BTW, you mat want to refer to Youngs Double Slit experiment.
 

1. What is sound interference?

Sound interference occurs when two or more waves of sound overlap and interact with each other, resulting in changes to the overall sound wave.

2. How does sound interference affect the quality of sound?

Sound interference can either enhance or diminish the quality of sound depending on the type of interference. Constructive interference can amplify sound, while destructive interference can cancel out or reduce sound.

3. What are some examples of sound interference?

Examples of sound interference include echoes, reverberation, and the sound produced by musical instruments. Interference can also occur in everyday situations, such as when two people are talking at the same time.

4. How do you calculate the resulting sound wave from interference?

The resulting sound wave from interference can be calculated by adding the amplitude of the overlapping waves at each point. This can be done using mathematical equations or by visually graphing the waves.

5. How can sound interference be minimized or controlled?

Sound interference can be minimized by using techniques such as sound absorption materials, strategic placement of sound sources, and adjusting the frequency or timing of the waves. In some cases, interference can also be controlled by using specialized equipment, such as noise-cancelling headphones.

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