What is the potential for using a conductive flame in audio technology?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the innovative use of conductive flames in audio technology, particularly in creating high-fidelity speakers. John recalls a method where two probes placed in a flame, connected to a sound source, yield excellent sound quality due to the flame's low mass. However, it is noted that the effectiveness of this setup diminishes for lower frequencies, which are significantly attenuated if their wavelengths exceed the distance between the electrodes. The conversation also touches on the potential applications of flame resistance measurement in safety systems, such as in natural gas ovens.

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  • Understanding of flame conductivity and resistance measurement
  • Familiarity with audio technology and speaker design
  • Knowledge of combustion processes and flame chemistry
  • Basic principles of acoustics and sound wave propagation
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jmatejka
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Many years ago I worked on a natural gas pizza oven. The oven had electrodes that measured resistance of the flame. If too high, the oven assumed loss of flame and shut down. This was a safety feature.

My College General Physics text shows a flame distorted by the field from a nearby Van De Graaff Generator.

I can think of many potential applications of altering a flame, perhaps varying the flame spread in an internal combustion engine?

Any other real world applications you know of?

My assumption is different flames = different resistance values

Would an Oxy Acetylene flame be more conductive when rich on oxygen?, or when sooty from lack of oxygen?

Thanks for any input, Regards, John
 
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Years ago I read of making a speaker using two probes in a flame, connected to a sound source. It is supposed to provide very good fidelity due to the low mass of the flame.
 
Integral said:
Years ago I read of making a speaker using two probes in a flame, connected to a sound source. It is supposed to provide very good fidelity due to the low mass of the flame.

To even further side track us they have made speakers out of carbon nanotubes.

 
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Integral said:
Years ago I read of making a speaker using two probes in a flame, connected to a sound source. It is supposed to provide very good fidelity due to the low mass of the flame.

Fascinating idea!
 
Integral said:
Years ago I read of making a speaker using two probes in a flame, connected to a sound source. It is supposed to provide very good fidelity due to the low mass of the flame.

The down side, as I recall, was that frequencies whose half wavelength was longer than the distance between the electrodes were severely attenuated. This meant that unless you were willing to have a spectacular 10 foot pulsating flame in your living room, you wouldn't get good bass response.
 

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