Human voice: Wavelength to frequency

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between wavelength and frequency in the context of human voice characteristics. The formula used, distance (wavelength) = k / frequency, was incorrectly applied with the speed of light instead of the speed of sound. The correct speed of sound is approximately 332 m/s, which yields a wavelength of 1.66 m for an average frequency of 200 Hz. Additionally, the usable voice frequency band in telephony, ranging from 300 Hz to 3400 Hz, is explored in relation to the fundamental frequency of adult human speech, which typically falls between 85 Hz and 255 Hz.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically wave mechanics.
  • Familiarity with the speed of sound in air (approximately 332 m/s).
  • Knowledge of frequency and wavelength relationships in sound waves.
  • Awareness of telecommunication standards regarding voice frequency ranges.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of sound waves and their properties, focusing on wavelength and frequency.
  • Learn about telecommunication standards, specifically the rationale behind the frequency range of 300 Hz to 3400 Hz.
  • Explore the implications of frequency range choices in wired communication systems.
  • Investigate the effects of frequency on voice clarity and intelligibility in telephony.
USEFUL FOR

Acoustics researchers, telecommunications engineers, audio engineers, and anyone interested in the physics of sound and its applications in communication technology.

wirefree
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With reference to the formula:

distance (wavelength) = k / frequency

what does a wavelength of 1176470.58 signify with regards to the fundamental frequency of a typical adult female being between 165 to 255 Hz, where

d = 300/.000255 = 1176470.58

Would greatly appreciate advise.


wirefree
 
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Where did you get those numbers and where did you get that equation?

Your equation is wrong because velocity is the product of wavelength and frequency. Your "k" is velocity.

If you take the speed of sound for a typical day to be 332 m/s and using an average frequency of 200 Hz, that equates to wavelength of 1.66 m.
 
wirefree said:
With reference to the formula:

distance (wavelength) = k / frequency

what does a wavelength of 1176470.58 signify with regards to the fundamental frequency of a typical adult female being between 165 to 255 Hz, where

d = 300/.000255 = 1176470.58

Would greatly appreciate advise.


wirefree

It signifies that you are using the speed of light instead of the speed of sound for k.
 
Appreciate the advise.

I put forth a follow-up concluding query below:

Why do the usable voice frequency band in telephony range from approximately 300 Hz to 3400 Hz when the voiced speech of a typical adult human have a fundamental frequency from 85 to 255 Hz?

Look forward to your advise.


wirefree

P.S. My information source is http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voice_frequency
 
wirefree said:
Appreciate the advise.

I put forth a follow-up concluding query below:

Why do the usable voice frequency band in telephony range from approximately 300 Hz to 3400 Hz when the voiced speech of a typical adult human have a fundamental frequency from 85 to 255 Hz?

Look forward to your advise.


wirefree

P.S. My information source is http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voice_frequency

Is this for homework or coursework? If so, we can move this thread for you to the Homework Help forums.

What are your thoughts about why the reduced frequency range was chosen for wired telephone communication? What advantages would there be to raising the minimum frequency transmitted, and lowering the maximum? Why didn't they narrow the frequency range even more?
 

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