Calculate fundamental overtone and length of tube

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a tube open at both ends that exhibits harmonics at specific frequencies. Participants are tasked with calculating the fundamental overtone and the length of the tube based on the given frequencies.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the given frequencies and the fundamental frequency, with some suggesting methods to find the fundamental harmonic through frequency differences. Questions arise regarding the necessary calculations for determining the overtone and tube length.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on how to approach the calculations for both parts of the problem, while others are seeking clarification on the specific calculations needed. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of assuming the speed of sound in air for calculations, but the original poster expresses uncertainty about obtaining the necessary values for velocity and wavelength.

bookerdewitt
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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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