Speed of propagation of sound wave?

Click For Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the speed of sound propagation in the inner ear based on a piano's frequency range. The user initially calculates the wavelength for the lowest frequency of 20 Hz, resulting in 4.5 m, and then determines the highest note's frequency to be 2000 Hz. Using the equation f = v/λ, they arrive at a velocity of 2.4 m/s but express uncertainty about the correctness of their approach. The conversation highlights the importance of using the correct equations and understanding wave properties in sound propagation. Clarification on the appropriate formulas and calculations is sought to verify the results.
whitestork
Messages
1
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Assume a piano has 100 different notes from the lowest to highest. We go up from note to note by the same frequency ratio, say starting at 20 Hz. Assuming that the lowest frequency excites the basilar membrane, 30 mm long, at its end, and that this represents a quarter of a wavelength.

What is the speed of propagation of the sound wave in the inner ear?


Homework Equations


Frequency = velocity / wavelength (?)

The Attempt at a Solution


My attempt at the solution resulted in a velocity of 2.4 m/s, but I'm sure that I'm using the wrong equation.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I started by calculating the wavelength of the lowest frequency, which would be 4.5 m. Then I calculated the frequency of the highest note, which would be 2000 Hz. Next, I used the equation f = v/λ which gave me a velocity of 2.4 m/s. But I'm not sure if this is the correct equation to use and if my answer is correct.
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
20
Views
5K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
4K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K