Is the speed of sound faster in an open tube?

AI Thread Summary
An experiment measuring the speed of sound in an open tube versus a closed tube reported a difference of about 10 m/s, with the open tube yielding a faster speed. The discussion raises questions about the accuracy of the measurements and the potential influence of factors like the effective length of the sound wave. Participants emphasize the need for precise timing, suggesting that a measurement accuracy of 1/100th of a second is necessary to detect such a difference. There is skepticism about whether a difference should exist at all, as the speed of sound is generally consistent in similar mediums. The conversation highlights the importance of experimental setup and measurement techniques in physics experiments.
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So my friend in a general physics class did an experiment testing the speed of sound by snapping their fingers and having it bounce through a tube open and another that is closed. They measured a faster speed in the open tube and I am at a loss why. Did they do the measurements wrong possibly or is there an explanation for faster speed of sound in an open tube? They measured the speed of sound in the open tube about 10 m/s faster.

I tried to do a search on the net but found nothing besides it changing the effective length of the wave and such, but not sure that effects the speed. Thanks.
 
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How long of a tube and how was it measured? You'd need a measurement precision of 1/100th second to be able to measure a difference of 10 m/s.
 
Hmm I am not sure how long of tubes were used, I think about 8ish feet. They just used a computer program and microphone and snapping their fingers to measure the sound wave bouncing back. Not sure what program they used.

Should there be a difference though in the 2 tubes or should they be the same? If different then why is that?
 
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There should be no difference. What is the precision of the timing device?
 

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