Sound Travel from Water to Air - Visualizing the Possibilities

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the transmission of sound from water to air, exploring the mechanisms involved and the visual representation of this phenomenon. Participants consider both theoretical aspects and practical implications of sound propagation across different mediums.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that sound can travel from water to air and vice versa, noting that sound is invisible.
  • Another participant emphasizes the difference in the speed of sound in water compared to air, suggesting that this leads to significant reflection at the air-water interface.
  • A further contribution mentions Snell's law, proposing that sound transitioning from water to air will be refracted toward the surface normal, indicating that sound will primarily be directed upward.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that sound can travel between water and air, but there are varying interpretations regarding the implications of speed differences and the behavior of sound at the interface.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the visibility of sound and the specific conditions under which sound travels between mediums are not fully explored. The discussion does not resolve the complexities of sound behavior at the air-water boundary.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying acoustics, physics of sound, or anyone curious about sound propagation in different environments.

artevolved
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can sound travel from a body of water to air?
if so, what might it look like?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
of course it does!
any data is greatly appreciated.
 
Yes, a sound can travel from water to air. Sound is invisible, so you could not see it.

The reverse is also true: sound can travel from air to water. And, you cannot see that, either.

Do you have a more specific question?

Bobbywhy
 
The speed of sound in water is considerably greater than in air. So you get a lot of reflection at the air-water surface. By Snell's law, sound going from water to air will be refracted toward the surface normal, so sound coming from the water into the air will be mostly directed upward, I think.
 

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