Does the speed of sound change in metal when heated?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether the speed of sound in a metal changes when the metal is heated compared to its speed at ambient temperature. Participants explore factors that may influence the speed of sound in materials, particularly in the context of thermal effects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the speed of sound in metal does change with temperature due to variations in density.
  • Others argue that the speed of sound may depend on additional factors beyond density, suggesting a more complex relationship.
  • A participant references a previous discussion from 2011 that may provide further context on the temperature-dependent speed of sound in solids.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the factors affecting the speed of sound in metals when heated, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need to consider various factors that influence the speed of sound, but specific assumptions or definitions are not fully explored in the discussion.

volican
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Is the speed of sound different through the same piece of metal when it is heated compared to when at ambient temperature?
 
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volican said:
Is the speed of sound different through the same piece of metal when it is heated compared to when at ambient temperature?
What are your thoughts? What things affect the speed of sound in a material?
 
I'm thinking it does because the density would be different.
 
volican said:
I'm thinking it does because the density would be different.
I would think so too, but I think the speed of sound in a material depends on other things as well. I'd look up the speed of sound in materials (maybe start at Wikipedia), and look at the equation there.
 
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