Determining metres that a frequency produces

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In summary, the conversation is about finding the distance traveled by the end of a tuning fork in 2 seconds, given its average amplitude of 1.0 mm and a frequency of 256 Hz. After some calculations, it is determined that there are 4 mm or 0.004 m per cycle, and in 2 seconds there would be 0.25 cycles. However, since frequency is measured in cycles per second, the actual number of cycles in 2 seconds would be 256. Therefore, the distance traveled by the end of the tuning fork in 2 seconds would be 2 meters (2 cycles * 0.004 m per cycle = 0.008 m or 2 meters).
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SoConfused__
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Homework Statement


The end of a 256 Hz tuning fork has an average amplitude of 1.0 mm for 2.0 seconds. How many metres does the end of the tuning fork travel in this time.

(The answer is also given in the back of the textbook, which is 2.0m).


Homework Equations


v = f * lambda, I believe.
f = cycles/seconds


The Attempt at a Solution


Well this is what I'm thinking. One wavelength would be 4mm. To the left, rest position, right, and back at resposition. (Each time the fork vibrates left & right it goes 1mm out).

Therefore 1 cycle = 4mm (0.004m)
(2/0.004m)
So, would the period be 500 metres per s?

So how many metres does the end of the tuning fork travel in 2 seconds?
Well.. wouldn't it be 1000 metres?

The answer says 2metres though. I think I don't have an understanding of the question. If someone could explain, I would very much appreciate it. Thank you so much!
 
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  • #2
Your number of 4 mm per cycle is correct. For this tuning fork, how many cycles are there in 2 seconds?
 
  • #3
Erm... 0.25?
 
  • #4
No frequency is cycles per second. How do you get 0.25?
 
  • #5
Another name for 1 Hz is "one cycle per second."
 

1. How is the frequency of a sound wave measured?

The frequency of a sound wave is measured in units of Hertz (Hz), which represents the number of cycles or vibrations per second. This can be determined using specialized equipment, such as an oscilloscope, or by using mathematical formulas to analyze the sound wave.

2. What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

The frequency and wavelength of a sound wave are inversely related. This means that as the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation: wavelength = speed of sound / frequency.

3. How can the frequency of a sound wave affect human perception?

The frequency of a sound wave can significantly affect human perception, particularly in terms of pitch. Higher frequencies are perceived as higher pitched sounds, while lower frequencies are perceived as lower pitched sounds. Additionally, certain frequencies can also cause discomfort or pain at high volumes.

4. Can the frequency of a sound wave be changed?

Yes, the frequency of a sound wave can be changed by altering the source of the sound wave. For example, changing the tension on a guitar string will change the frequency of the sound it produces. Additionally, electronic devices such as synthesizers can manipulate the frequency of sound waves.

5. How can the frequency of a sound wave be used in practical applications?

The frequency of a sound wave is used in a variety of practical applications, including music production, medical imaging, and communication technology. For example, in medical imaging, high frequency sound waves are used in ultrasound technology to create images of internal organs. In communication technology, different frequencies are used for different purposes, such as radio waves for broadcasting and microwaves for wireless communication.

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