How Do Sound Waves Influence Water Flow?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the interaction between sound waves and water flow, specifically how sound waves can create oscillations in a water stream, resulting in a sine wave appearance. Participants clarify that while sound waves transport energy, they do not transport matter; instead, the water's flow is driven by gravity. The experiment demonstrates that sound waves can influence the visual characteristics of water flow without altering the fundamental mechanics of water movement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, particularly sound waves
  • Basic knowledge of fluid dynamics and gravity's role in fluid flow
  • Familiarity with oscillation concepts in physics
  • Experience with experimental physics methods
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of sound wave propagation in fluids
  • Explore the effects of oscillations on fluid dynamics
  • Study the relationship between wave frequency and amplitude in water
  • Investigate practical applications of sound waves in fluid manipulation
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, researchers in fluid dynamics, and engineers interested in the applications of sound waves in fluid systems will benefit from this discussion.

kkpanu9
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http://www.quora.com/How-can-sound-waves-alter-the-flow-of-water

Ok, so I carried out this experiment, and I understand some of it, but need help with other parts. Ok, so are we actually seeing a sine wave formed by the water? If so, I understand that waves are supposed to transport energy, not matter. However, obviously in this experiment matter is being transported. Also, if this is a wave, then what is the medium? Is it air, water, the tube?? Also, I understand that the velocity of the wave is not supposed to change, but if you increase the flow rate of the water from the pipe, then the velocity obviously does increase.

Basically, can someone help relate what I'm observing to what I learned in my AP Physics class in high school?
 
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kkpanu9 said:
If so, I understand that waves are supposed to transport energy, not matter. However, obviously in this experiment matter is being transported.

what matter is being transported ? where ?

the sound is just causing an oscillation in the water stream and producing a sine wave appearance in that flow

Dave
 
davenn said:
what matter is being transported ? where ?

the sound is just causing an oscillation in the water stream and producing a sine wave appearance in that flow

Dave

Oh so the wave itself is not transporting the water. That is just due to gravity.
 
kkpanu9 said:
Oh so the wave itself is not transporting the water. That is just due to gravity.

yes the water is just flowing out the end of the hose as it would normally do
There is just a sound wave superimposed on it ... quite neat :smile:

Dave
 

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