- #1
F2fHaziq Zaini 93
- 3
- 0
Is it true that the higher the frequency of sound, the narrower the wave will be?
Acoustics & Physics: Is Frequency Linked to Wave Width?
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the relationship between frequency and the physical characteristics of sound waves, particularly in the context of hydrophones used for detecting ultrasound waves underwater. Participants explore concepts related to wave properties, including wavelength and beam directionality, while addressing the implications for the design of hydrophones.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants propose that higher frequency sound waves are associated with narrower waves, although this is not universally accepted.
- One participant clarifies that the term 'size' of a wave is not applicable, suggesting that wavelength is the relevant spatial quantity.
- Another participant introduces the concept of beam 'tightness' and how it relates to diffraction and the width of the sound source.
- Concerns are raised about the clarity of explanations provided by educators, with a suggestion that the professor's background may influence their understanding of the topic.
- A participant expresses confusion about the relationship between hydrophone size and frequency, indicating a belief that higher frequencies correlate with smaller hydrophone sizes.
- There is a request for further reading to understand the design rationale behind needle-shaped hydrophones.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the relationship between frequency and wave characteristics, with multiple competing views and some uncertainty expressed regarding the terminology and concepts involved.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include potential misunderstandings of wave properties, the influence of medium on sound speed and wavelength, and the implications of diffraction on beam directionality. The discussion also reflects varying levels of expertise among participants.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in acoustics, hydrophone technology, and the physics of sound waves, particularly in underwater applications.
- #2
berkeman
Admin
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Welcome to the PF.F2fHaziq Zaini 93 said:
The simple answer to your question is Yes. Have a look at this information page to see if it helps your understanding. Post here in your thread if you have questions about the link.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wavelength
- #3
F2fHaziq Zaini 93
- 3
- 0
Thanks Berkeman for the reply. Although I wasnt talking abt the wavelength. More like the size of the sound wave.
You see I am trying to understand the use of a needle hydrophone which is used to detect ultrasound waves underwater. So I am basically trying to find out why it's so small in size. I have heard from my professors that sound waves become narrower, as the frequency increases(Huygens Principle)
You see I am trying to understand the use of a needle hydrophone which is used to detect ultrasound waves underwater. So I am basically trying to find out why it's so small in size. I have heard from my professors that sound waves become narrower, as the frequency increases(Huygens Principle)
- #4
sophiecentaur
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
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A wave can't be assigned a 'size'. It can propagate any distance and all waves spread out from the nominal direction they are pointed in. The only spatial quantity is wavelength.
However, you may be referring to the 'tightness' of a beam that can be produced. That is limited by Diffraction and depends mostly on the 'aperture' or width of the source (projector or radio antenna etc). You need a wide source to produce a narrow beam.
Your needle hydrophone is small and will not be very directional. Your professor was probably talking loosely about wavelength which, for sound in water, is a lot greater than it is in air because the wave speed is so much higher.
But, when teachers tell you something that doesn't make sense to you, you should challenge them and ask for clarity. Asking about this particular confusion is fully justified.
PS Your professor is, presumably, a Biologist and not a Physicist, which could explain the problem.
However, you may be referring to the 'tightness' of a beam that can be produced. That is limited by Diffraction and depends mostly on the 'aperture' or width of the source (projector or radio antenna etc). You need a wide source to produce a narrow beam.
Your needle hydrophone is small and will not be very directional. Your professor was probably talking loosely about wavelength which, for sound in water, is a lot greater than it is in air because the wave speed is so much higher.
But, when teachers tell you something that doesn't make sense to you, you should challenge them and ask for clarity. Asking about this particular confusion is fully justified.
PS Your professor is, presumably, a Biologist and not a Physicist, which could explain the problem.
- #5
F2fHaziq Zaini 93
- 3
- 0
I think I believed him because of the fact that when you look at the size of hydrophones; the higher the frequency, the smaller the size of the hydrophone.Which led me to think that sound at the Mhz range will be pretty small. I actually tried explaining to him that it's probably bcuz of the wavelength.
What should I be reading? So that I can understand why a hydrophone has to be needle-shaped?
Appreciate the help :)
(FYI: I am doing a project that involves measuring the power of ultrasound waves in water)
What should I be reading? So that I can understand why a hydrophone has to be needle-shaped?
Appreciate the help :)
(FYI: I am doing a project that involves measuring the power of ultrasound waves in water)
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