Maximum interference of frequencies

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the lowest two frequencies that produce an interference maximum at a microphone located 2.25m from the midpoint of two speakers, which are 0.650m apart and oscillating in phase. The correct approach involves using the formula L2 - L1 = mλ, where λ is the wavelength. A critical error identified was the use of the speed of light (c) instead of the speed of sound (343 m/s) for frequency calculations. This mistake led to incorrect frequency results, specifically 4.0 x 10^8 Hz.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Familiarity with the formula L2 - L1 = mλ
  • Knowledge of sound speed in air (343 m/s)
  • Ability to convert wavelength to frequency using f = c/λ
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate interference patterns using different speaker distances
  • Explore the effects of varying sound speeds in different mediums
  • Learn about phase differences in wave interference
  • Investigate real-world applications of sound wave interference
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, acoustics engineers, and anyone interested in wave interference phenomena.

baylorbelle
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A microphone is located on the line connecting two speakers that are 0.650m apart and oscillating in phase. The microphone is 2.25m from the midpoint of the two speakers. What are the lowest two frequencies that produce an interference maximum at the microphone's location?


okay, so i have my diagram:
speakerproblem.jpg


I know that the basic formula is L2-L1=m\lambda , but whenever i do my math, find \lambda, and convert it to Hz using f=c/\lambda, I keep getting 4.0*10^8. I don't know where I'm messing up or how I need to approach this problem to even get two answers. Any guidance is appreciated!
 
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baylorbelle said:
A microphone is located on the line connecting two speakers that are 0.650m apart and oscillating in phase. The microphone is 2.25m from the midpoint of the two speakers. What are the lowest two frequencies that produce an interference maximum at the microphone's location?

I know that the basic formula is L2-L1=m\lambda , but whenever i do my math, find \lambda, and convert it to Hz using f=c/\lambda, I keep getting 4.0*10^8. I don't know where I'm messing up or how I need to approach this problem to even get two answers. Any guidance is appreciated!

What speed of sound are you using?

I use 343 m/s in air. What are you using?
 
it figures it would be a simple mistake like that. I was using the speed of light instead of the speed of sound. Thanks for clearing up my careless error.
 
baylorbelle said:
it figures it would be a simple mistake like that. I was using the speed of light instead of the speed of sound. Thanks for clearing up my careless error.

That's a start then. Have you figured out the rest of it ok?
 

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