Human voice: Wavelength to frequency

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between wavelength and frequency in the context of human voice characteristics, particularly focusing on the fundamental frequency of adult females and the usable voice frequency band in telephony. It includes theoretical considerations and practical implications related to sound transmission.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula relating distance (wavelength) to frequency and queries the significance of a specific wavelength in relation to typical adult female frequencies.
  • Another participant challenges the initial equation, asserting that velocity is the product of wavelength and frequency, suggesting that "k" represents velocity.
  • A follow-up question is posed regarding the usable voice frequency band in telephony, questioning why it ranges from 300 Hz to 3400 Hz when typical human voice frequencies are lower.
  • There is a suggestion that the initial calculations may have incorrectly used the speed of light instead of the speed of sound.
  • A participant inquires if the discussion is related to homework or coursework, proposing a move to a different forum for assistance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct application of the formula relating wavelength and frequency, with some asserting the equation is incorrect while others seek clarification on the implications of frequency ranges in telephony. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the initial claims and the follow-up questions posed.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the choice of frequency ranges in telephony and the implications of using different speeds (sound vs. light) in calculations. The discussion also reflects varying levels of understanding regarding the relationship between wavelength and frequency.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals studying acoustics, telecommunications, or those involved in voice technology, as well as students seeking clarification on related concepts.

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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