Motion of point when sound volume goes up

In summary, the volume of a radio speaker is controlled by adjusting the amplitude of the diaphragm's vibrations. When the volume is turned up, the maximum displacement of the diaphragm increases, which in turn increases the loudness. However, the average speed of the point on the diaphragm must also increase in order to maintain the same frequency and travel a larger distance in the same amount of time. This is not the speed of the sound wave, but rather the speed of the diaphragm's vibrations.
  • #1
JessicaHelena
188
3

Homework Statement


A radio speaker produces sound when a membrane called a diaphragm vibrates, as shown above. A person turns up the volume on the radio. Which of the following aspects of the motion of a point on the diaphragm must increase?

a) the max. displacement only
b) the average speed only
c) both a) and b)
d) neither a) nor b)

(This is an AP Physics 1 sample problem)

Homework Equations



v=f * lambda (?)

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that the displacement will increase bc a louder volume leads to a greater amplitude (which is the displacement). The answer says that the average speed too must increase (it is choice c), but I'm having a hard time understanding that: I thought that loudness — and so amplitude — has nothing to do with the speed.
 
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  • #2
The frequency stays the same. How would you travel a larger distance in the same time without increasing the speed?

This is not the speed of the wave propagation (which stays constant). It is the speed of the membrane - much slower than the speed of sound.
 

1. How does sound volume affect the motion of a point?

As the sound volume increases, the motion of the point increases in amplitude and frequency. This is because sound waves are created by vibrations, and the higher the volume, the stronger the vibrations are. This results in a greater displacement of the point and a faster back-and-forth movement.

2. Is there a direct relationship between sound volume and motion?

Yes, there is a direct relationship between sound volume and motion. As the sound volume increases, the motion of the point also increases. This relationship is known as direct proportionality.

3. Can the motion of a point be affected by different sound frequencies at the same volume?

Yes, the motion of a point can be affected by different sound frequencies at the same volume. Different sound frequencies have different wavelengths, which can result in different amplitudes and frequencies of motion for the point. However, the overall effect of the sound volume on the motion will still be present.

4. How does the medium through which sound travels affect the motion of a point when the volume increases?

The medium through which sound travels can affect the motion of a point when the volume increases. In denser mediums, such as water, the sound waves will travel faster and have a greater impact on the motion of the point compared to less dense mediums, such as air. This is because denser mediums can transmit sound waves more efficiently.

5. Are there any safety precautions to consider when studying the motion of a point with increasing sound volume?

Yes, there are safety precautions to consider when studying the motion of a point with increasing sound volume. It is important to wear hearing protection to prevent damage to the ears, as extremely loud sounds can cause permanent hearing loss. It is also important to use proper equipment and conduct experiments in a controlled environment to avoid any potential hazards.

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