How Fast Do Sound Waves Travel in Ocean Water?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the speed of sound waves in ocean water, specifically in the context of a sonar experiment conducted by a research ship. The original poster presents a problem involving the calculation of sound wave speed, wavelength, and period based on given parameters.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the speed of sound using various equations related to distance, time, frequency, and period. Some participants question the appropriateness of using certain formulas in this context, particularly regarding the need to consider the round trip of the sound wave.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with one providing clarification on how to approach the calculation of velocity by considering the round trip distance. There is an acknowledgment of understanding from the original poster, indicating that guidance has been helpful.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on avoiding certain formulas that may not be relevant to the specific calculations being discussed, highlighting the importance of context in applying mathematical concepts.

ode19
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1. A stationary research ship uses sonar to send a 1.18 × 103-hertz sound wave down
through the ocean water. The reflected sound wave from the flat ocean bottom 324 meters
below the ship is detected 0.425 second after it was sent from the ship.
a. Calculate the speed of the sound wave in the ocean water.
b. Calculate the speed of the sound wave in the ocean water
c. Determine the period of the sound wave in the ocean water.

2. a. wavelength= velocity*Period
b. v=d/t
c. Period= 1/Frequency
3. w=vT= (distance/time)/(Frequency)= d/(tf) and i got .6461 meters
b. i assumed its just distance/time and got 762.353 m/s
c. i used the equation Period= 1/Frequency and i got .000847
 
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Welcome to PF, ode19.
The velocity is found from timing the leading edge of the pulse down and back up. Use v = d/t with a distance to 2x324 meters because it has to go down and back up.
Avoid using any formula with frequency, period or wavelength in it for this kind of question - it does not matter what those are in a question like (b) where you are only concerned with the motion of the pulse or beginning of a train of waves.
 
Thank you very much.
I now understand the question. I appreciate it.
 
Most welcome.
 

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