How to find distance using sound waves

Join the discussion
Ask a follow-up here, or get your own question answered by working scientists, mathematicians and engineers — people, not an autocomplete.
Real named experts · corrections over time · the nuance an AI answer skips
1 reply · 2K views
PhizKid
Messages
477
Reaction score
2

Homework Statement


j71FuB2.png



Homework Equations


x = (v_0)^2 - (1/2)gt^2


The Attempt at a Solution


Well, since the stone is dropped from rest, and the down direction is negative, the displacement is:

x = -(1/2)gt^2
x = -(1/2)(9.8 m/s^2)(3.00 s)^2
x = -44.1 m.

But this is incorrect and I don't recall any equation to express distance using sound waves given only the time since there isn't any other information we can assume from the free-fall I think.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Sound has a finite speed; you can look up its value. The time between dropping the stone and hearing the splash is the time the stone takes to fall plus the time the sound takes to reach your ears.