Is the Calculated Speed and Wavelength of a Sound Wave Accurate?

Yes, the calculations are correct. In summary, the sound wave produced by the smoke alarm has a speed of 339.81m/s in air, a wavelength of 0.33m, and a frequency of 1.02x103 Hz.
  • #1
Brittykitty
81
0
A sound wave produced by a smoke alarm 35.0 m away is heard 0.103 s after having been started by smoke in the air. The frequency of this sound wave is 1.02  103 Hz. Complete the following.

a.Find the speed of this sound wave in air.

b. Find its wavelength and period.


The sound wave in the air, is it always going to be 341m/s if not stated because that's the average?
 
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  • #2
You are asked to find the speed of sound, you are given a distance and a time - so it shouldn't be too tricky
 
  • #3
a. Find the speed of this sound wave in air.
S=35.0m/0.103s
S=339.81m/s

b. Find its wavelength and period.

Wavelength=339.81m/s ÷ 1.02x103
Wavelength=0.33m


Hello thank you :)
Does this look right to you?
 

What is the speed of sound in air?

The speed of sound in air is approximately 343 meters per second or 767 miles per hour at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. However, this speed can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and altitude.

How does temperature affect the speed of sound in air?

As temperature increases, the speed of sound in air also increases. This is because at higher temperatures, the air molecules have more kinetic energy and can vibrate faster, allowing sound waves to travel faster. On the other hand, at lower temperatures, the air molecules have less kinetic energy and vibrate slower, resulting in a slower speed of sound.

What is the relationship between the speed of sound in air and density?

The speed of sound in air is directly proportional to the density of air. This means that as the density of air increases, the speed of sound also increases. This is because denser air molecules are packed closer together, allowing sound waves to travel more easily and quickly through them.

How does altitude affect the speed of sound in air?

As altitude increases, the speed of sound in air decreases. This is because at higher altitudes, the air is less dense, which means there are fewer air molecules for sound waves to travel through. As a result, sound waves travel slower at higher altitudes.

Can the speed of sound in air change?

Yes, the speed of sound in air can change depending on various factors such as temperature, humidity, altitude, and even the composition of the air. For example, sound travels faster in hot, dry air compared to cold, humid air. Additionally, different gases have different densities, which can also affect the speed of sound.

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