Frequency of Sound and Light waves

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SUMMARY

The frequency of sound and light waves is influenced by distinct factors. Light waves are affected by electromagnetic energy, with the relationship defined by the equation f=E/h, where f is frequency, E is energy, and h is Planck's constant. Both ultraviolet and infrared light travel at approximately 3 x 10^8 m/s in air, though their energy and frequency differ. Sound waves, in contrast, are characterized by oscillations in air pressure, and their frequency is determined by the medium's properties rather than electromagnetic factors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic energy and its relation to light waves
  • Familiarity with Planck's constant and its role in quantum mechanics
  • Basic knowledge of sound wave propagation and pressure oscillations
  • Concept of refractive index and its effect on light speed in different media
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between frequency and wavelength in sound waves
  • Explore the concept of refractive index and its impact on light speed in various materials
  • Study the differences between classical and quantum mechanical models of light
  • Investigate the properties of sound waves in different media and their frequency variations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, acoustics researchers, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of wave behavior in sound and light.

escalade17
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Sorry for another dumb question. Thank you in advance.

What factors effect the frequency of sound and light waves. Light waves are effected by electromagnetic energy and given by (f=E/h) right? What about sound waves?

Also, to make sure, even though ultraviolet light has much more energy infrared light and hence a proportionally greater frequency and lower wavelength, they both travel at 3*10^8 in air. All light travels at 3*10^8 in air, right?
 
Science news on Phys.org
Taken backwards
- the speed of light in a vacuum is a constant ... but, in a media, it can depend on the wavelength.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refractive_index
The speed of light in air is very close to that in vacuum so we usually just pretend it's the same.

The energy carried by a photon in determined by the frequency and plancs constant ... not the energy of the light wave. You have to be careful about confusing different models - one is classical and the other quantum mechanical.

The "wave" of light is oscillations in the electro-magnetic field strength in space. The wave of sound is oscillations in the pressure of the air.
 
got it. thank you.
 

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