Destructive interference and constructive interference

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the principles of destructive and constructive interference as experienced by an observer situated between two loudspeakers emitting sound in phase at a frequency of 266 Hz. The speakers are positioned 4.0 m apart, and the observer, located 2.0 m from each speaker, experiences constructive interference due to the equal path lengths. The speed of sound is established at 343 m/s, leading to a wavelength of 3.0 m. The lowest frequency for destructive interference is calculated to be 114 Hz, with subsequent frequencies at 343 Hz and 572 Hz, determined by the relationship between frequency, wavelength, and the speed of sound.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave properties, specifically wavelength and frequency.
  • Familiarity with the concept of interference patterns in wave physics.
  • Knowledge of the universal wave equation: v = f * λ.
  • Basic understanding of sound propagation and speed of sound calculations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the conditions for destructive interference in wave phenomena.
  • Learn how to calculate path differences for interference patterns.
  • Investigate the effects of varying frequencies on interference outcomes.
  • Study the application of the universal wave equation in different mediums.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, audio engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of wave interference and sound propagation.

shawen
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
Moved from general physics forum
Two loudspeakers are placed facing each 4.0 m apart. The speakers emit sound in phase with a frequency of 266 Hz. An observer at the center (2.0 m from each speaker along the line joining them) experiences constructive interference. The speed of sound is 343 m/s

The lowest frequency at which destructive interference could occur is if 1/2 a wavelength = 1.5 m (the difference between the two)

The speed of sound can be found with the following formula
v = 331 m/s + (0.6 m/s/C)•T
So at 20C you get a speed of 343 m/s.

We know that (1/2)*lambda = 1.5 m, so lambda = 3.0m
The wavelength must be 3 m.

Using the universal wave equation

v = f*lambda
f = v/lambda
f = (343m/s)/(3 m)
= 114 Hz

The lowest freq would be 114 Hz

The next two lowest would be a 3lambda/2 = 1.5 and 5lambda/2 = 1.5

so lambda = 1m and lambda = 0.6m

Those give f = 343 Hz and 572 Hz

i don't know how to find How far toward either speaker must the observer walk to experience destructive interference?
please help me
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
shawen said:
i don't know how to find how far it is

How far what is? (What is "it"?)
 
jtbell said:
How far what is? (What is "it"?)
How far toward either speaker must the observer walk to experience destructive interference?
 
What is the c
shawen said:
How far toward either speaker must the observer walk to experience destructive interference?
What is the condition for destructive interference? What path difference will give destructive interference?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K