How Do Sound Waves Influence Water Flow?

[kkpanu9]

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?

 

[davenn]

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

 

[kkpanu9]

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.

 

[davenn]

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

Dave