Sound Interference Problem -- Observer moving between two speakers

In summary, the problem involves two identical loudspeakers driven in phase by the same amplifier at a frequency of 680 Hz. The speakers are 4.6 m apart and an observer stands 9 m away from one of the speakers. The observer starts moving directly towards the closest speaker and the question asks how far they must move to hear their first sound minimum. By considering the distance to the first and second speakers and applying the condition of destructive interference, it is found that there are no solutions for n = 1 and n = 3. The first solution is found for n = 5, which yields a distance of 1.161 m.
  • #1
jybe
41
1

Homework Statement


Two identical loudspeakers
are driven in phase by the same amplifier at a frequency of 680 Hz. The
speakers are 4.6 m apart. An observer stands 9 m away
from one of the speakers as shown. The observer
then starts moving directly towards the closest speaker.
How far does the observer have to move to hear
their first sound minimum? The speed of sound is 340 m/s

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I found a solution:

Frequency of sound, f = 680 Hz
Velocity of sound, v = 340 m/s
Wavelength of sound,
gif.gif
= v/f
= 340/680 = 0.5 m

Consider that after moving a distance 'd', the observer hear a minimum.
Distance to the first speaker, D1 = SQRT[(9 - d)2 + 4.62]
Distance to the second speaker, D2 = 9 - d
The condition of destructive interference is that,
D1 - D2 = n
gif.gif
/2
SQRT[(9 - d)2 + 4.62] - (9 - d) = n
gif.gif
/2
There are no solutions for n = 1 and n = 3, For n = 5,
SQRT[(9 - d)2 + 4.62] - (9 - d) = 1.25
SQRT[(9 - d)2 + 4.62] = 10.25 - d
Squaring both the sides,
[(9 - d)2 + 4.62] = [9.25 - d]2
81 + d2 - 18d + 21.16 = 105.0625 - 20.5d + d2
102.16 - 18d = 105.0625 - 20.5d
2.5d = 2.9025
d = 1.161 m

My question is about the bolded part. How was it determined that there are no solutions for n=1 and n=3? How do you know what n can equal? Thanks.
 

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  • #2
jybe said:
as shown
Please post either the diagram or a very clear description.
 
  • #3
" An observer stands 9 m away
from one of the speakers as shown."

This is the image we need.
 
  • #4
Assuming the rest of work is correct, for ##n=1## you get the equation ##(9-d)^2+(4.62)^2=(9.25-d)^2## which has a solution with ##d## negative ##d=-33.56## I think. Similarly for ##n=3 ## you also get an equation with negative solution for ##d##. But ##d## must be positive, if we accept a negative ##d## as solution it would be like we are walking away from the source, instead of closer to the source.
So, ##n=5## is the first ##n## for which we get an equation with positive solution for ##d##.
 
Last edited:

1. What is sound interference?

Sound interference is the phenomenon where two or more sound waves interact with each other, resulting in a change in the overall sound. This can occur when two or more sound sources are producing sound waves at the same time and location.

2. How does sound interference occur when an observer moves between two speakers?

When an observer moves between two speakers, they are essentially changing their distance and direction from each speaker. This results in the sound waves from each speaker reaching the observer at different times and with different intensities, causing interference and potentially altering the perceived sound.

3. What factors can affect sound interference between two speakers?

The distance between the two speakers, the frequency and amplitude of the sound waves, and the relative position of the observer can all affect the degree of sound interference. Other factors such as the shape and size of the room can also play a role.

4. How can sound interference be minimized in this scenario?

To minimize sound interference when an observer moves between two speakers, the speakers should be placed at an equal distance from the observer and have their sound waves synchronized. Additionally, using sound-absorbing materials in the room can help reduce the impact of sound interference.

5. Is sound interference always a problem when an observer moves between two speakers?

No, sound interference is not always a problem when an observer moves between two speakers. In some cases, it can create a desired effect, such as in surround sound systems. However, in other cases, it can distort the sound and make it difficult to understand or enjoy.

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