Sound moving through different mediums

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of sound waves as they travel through different mediums, specifically comparing the fundamental frequency of a pipe filled with air versus one filled with helium. Participants explore the implications of medium changes on sound frequency.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between sound speed in different mediums and its effect on frequency, with some questioning the assumptions made about the constancy of frequency when changing mediums.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with various interpretations being explored regarding how the medium affects sound frequency. Some participants suggest that the fundamental frequency may remain unchanged, while others are examining the mathematical relationships involved.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of uncertainty regarding the correct application of formulas and factors when transitioning from air to helium, as well as the assumptions about the nature of sound generation within the pipe.

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A certain pipe produces a fundamental frequency of f in air.

If the pipe is filled with helium at the same temperature, what fundamental frequency does it produce?

I assume that I just take (f/v1)(v2), with v1 being speed in air and v2 being speed in helium

this lead me to the equation:
(f*sqrt(M_air))/sqrt(M_He)

However, this is somehow off by a multiplicative factor. I can, however, find no way in which any other factor would be involved...
 
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Assuming that the mechanism in which the sound is being generated remains the same, the frequency does not change. If the speakers are vibrating the air at 5kHz, then changing the air content will not affect how they vibrate.
 
i think this may be assuming that air/he is the medium which the wave is traveling in, not the pipe itself
 
or.. f is also the fundamental frequency of the pipe, so you are using f = nv/2pi (or 4pi) i can't remember which, but that factor of the equation should be inconsequential.
 

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