How Does Sound Behavior Change in Low Atmosphere?

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SUMMARY

The speed of sound, referred to as Mach 1, varies with altitude due to changes in temperature in the atmosphere. As altitude increases, the speed of sound is influenced by the density and pressure of the air, leading to different behaviors in sound propagation. The intensity and frequency of sound also change with altitude, although specific details on these variations were not extensively covered in the discussion. For further understanding, refer to Mach vs. Altitude Tables and resources on mechanical waves.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atmospheric layers and their properties
  • Basic knowledge of sound waves and their characteristics
  • Familiarity with temperature's effect on gas behavior
  • Access to Mach vs. Altitude Tables for reference
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between temperature and sound speed in different atmospheric layers
  • Explore the effects of altitude on sound intensity and frequency
  • Study the principles of mechanical waves and sound propagation
  • Examine the Feynman Lectures on sound behavior in various mediums
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, atmospheric scientists, and anyone interested in the properties of sound in varying atmospheric conditions.

brendanbarnes
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There is no sound in space because there are not enough particles to transmit the pressure wave. But what about really high in the atmosphere where there is just a little air? Would sound move faster, slower or at the same speed? Would the intensity (aka volume) go up, down, or stay the same? And would the frequency go up, down, or stay the same as it traveled through space?

Here are some references that I have personally looked at that might spark good thoughts:
http://www.feynmanlectures.caltech.edu/I_47.htmlhttps://www.khanacademy.org/science...ve-speed-of-sound-in-solids-liquids-and-gases
Thanks,
Brendan
 
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The speed of sound does change as altitude increases. That speed is called Mach 1. How it changes depends a lot on how the temperature changes. So its behavior changes in different parts of the atmosphere. See Mach vs. Altitude Tables .
 
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