Determining the distance of a pipe by the length of an echo

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    Echo Length Pipe
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SUMMARY

To determine the length of a pipe using sound echoes, emit a discrete click sound and measure the time interval until the echo returns. The speed of sound in air is approximately 1467 feet per second. Calculate the distance by dividing the measured time interval by 1467, then divide the result by 2 to account for the round trip of the sound wave. This method allows for accurate measurement of pipe lengths under 5280 feet.

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  • Familiarity with the concept of echo
  • Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations
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  • Learn about precise time measurement tools for echo detection
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How could I determine the length of a pipe by playing a certain frequency into it, then measuring how long the echo is audible?
 
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workinprogres said:
How could I determine the length of a pipe by playing a certain frequency into it, then measuring how long the echo is audible?

Identify the time interval between the emission of the transmitted sound (frequency-independent; ensure your transmitted sound is a discreet click rather than a long, continuous soundwave for ease of calculation) and it's return echo. The pipe is assumed to be measueable in feet less than 5280 (or one mile); sound travels at around 1467 feet/sec. Divide your time interval by 1467, then divide that answer by 1/2 (remember, the sound wave travels twice the distance of your pipe, hence the reason for the second division by 1/2) to arrive at your answer.
 

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