Speed of Sound: What is the Equation?

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SUMMARY

The equation for the speed of sound is defined as c = \sqrt{\gamma T R}, where c represents the speed of sound, \gamma is the adiabatic index, T is the absolute temperature, and R is the specific gas constant. This equation illustrates the relationship between sound speed and various physical properties, emphasizing that the context of the question significantly influences the applicable equation. Understanding the specific conditions and variables involved is crucial for accurate application.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamics, specifically the concepts of temperature and pressure.
  • Familiarity with wave properties, including wavelength and frequency.
  • Knowledge of the adiabatic index and its significance in gas behavior.
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations and understanding relationships between variables.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the adiabatic index (\gamma) in different gases.
  • Explore the relationship between sound speed, temperature, and pressure in various mediums.
  • Learn about the effects of tension in materials on sound propagation, particularly in strings.
  • Investigate the differences in sound speed in gases versus liquids and solids.
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, engineers working with acoustics, and anyone interested in the principles of sound propagation and its dependence on environmental conditions.

isabella
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does anyone know the equation of speed of sound?
 
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isabella said:
does anyone know the equation of speed of sound?
Do you realize that this question is so poorly worded that any correct response you receive must be a result of some fortunate psychological evaluation of what you mean by the question ?

An equation, as you must be aware, relates a bunch of quantities. There may be several equations involving anyone chosen quantity. So, if you want to know about the speed of sound, what do you want to relate it to - the spacing between piles of dust in a particular experiment, the wavelength and frequency of a wave, the tension in a guitar string, the pressure of a gas, some material property rather than a wave property or viceversa ?
 
\sqrt{\gamma T R}
 
Last edited:

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