Calculate fundamental overtone and length of tube

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the fundamental overtone and the length of a tube open at both ends, given the harmonics at 438 Hz, 584 Hz, and 730 Hz. The fundamental overtone, identified as the second harmonic, can be derived from the differences in the provided frequencies. By assuming the speed of sound in air at 20°C to be 343 m/s, the length of the tube can be calculated using the formula L = v / (2 * f), where f is the fundamental frequency obtained from the harmonic frequencies.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of harmonic frequencies in open tubes
  • Knowledge of the speed of sound in air (343 m/s at 20°C)
  • Familiarity with the equations L = λ/2 x n and v = f x λ
  • Basic algebra for frequency and wavelength calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the fundamental frequency from the given harmonics
  • Determine the length of the tube using L = v / (2 * f)
  • Explore the relationship between harmonics and overtones in open tubes
  • Investigate variations in the speed of sound under different conditions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics and acoustics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of harmonic calculations in open tubes.

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Homework Statement


It is observed that a tube open at both ends exhibits harmonics at 438 Hz, 584 Hz, and 730 Hz.
A) Calculate the fundamental overtone of the tube.
B) Calculate the length of the tube.



Homework Equations


L=lambda/2 x n, v = f x lambda



The Attempt at a Solution


I know that the fundamental overtone is the second harmonic so n would be 2 but to calculate the frequency I would need to know the velocity and wavelength and I don't see how I can get those.
 
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A)Well, in this instance, you are given three consecutive harmonics at 438Hz, 584Hz, and 730Hz. Besides the equations that you are given, you also know that harmonics in this open tube are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency. So, you can easily calculate the difference between each of the given frequencies to find the fundamental harmonic. From there, you can find the first overtone by multiplying the fundamental frequency by 2.
 
B) For this part, it looks like they want you to assume the speed of sound to be 343m/s (speed of sound in air at 20°C). If this is the case, then your calculations should be relatively simple.
 
Thanks a lot.
 
What calculation is to be used for part A and part B?
 

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