Calculating slit separation for sound two-slit interference?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the slit separation distance for a two-slit interference setup that produces interference fringes for sound at a frequency of 262 Hz, analogous to red light at 4.9×1014 Hz. The established formula for this calculation is sin(theta) = m(wavelength)/d, where the wavelength is derived from the speed of sound (343 m/s) divided by the frequency. The correct slit separation distance calculated is 640 mm, confirming that the velocities of sound and light are distinct and must be treated accordingly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave properties, specifically interference patterns.
  • Familiarity with the formula for wavelength: λ = v/f.
  • Knowledge of the speed of sound in air at room temperature (approximately 343 m/s).
  • Basic grasp of trigonometric functions related to wave angles.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of wave interference and diffraction patterns.
  • Learn about the relationship between frequency, wavelength, and wave speed in different mediums.
  • Explore the mathematical derivation of the two-slit interference formula.
  • Investigate the effects of varying slit separation on interference patterns in sound waves.
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Students in physics, acoustics researchers, and educators looking to deepen their understanding of wave interference phenomena in both light and sound.

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Homework Statement



A two-slit interference set-up with slit separation d =0.30 mm produces interference fringes at a particular set of angles THETAm (where m = 0, 1, 2,) for red light of frequency f = 4.9×10^14 hz.

If one wishes to construct an analogous two-slit interference set-up that produces interference fringes at the same set of angles THETAm for room-temperature sound of middle-C frequency f = 262 hz, what should the slit separation distance be for this analogous set-up?
this particular problems answer is 640 but i can't seem to arrive at that

Homework Equations


sin(theta)= m(wavelength)/d

The Attempt at a Solution


i believe sin(theta) is equalin both, so i don't see why it wouldn't come down to wavelenth/d is proprotional to wavelenth/d, or converting to frequency 1/fd = 1/fd or fd=fd.
 
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You know \lambda = v/f, but they both have different velocities so you can't use fd = fd.
 
arent their velocities equal at c, being the speed of light?
 
room-temperature sound of middle-C frequency f = 262 hz

Sound doesn't travel at the speed of light. At least not where I live at.
 
oh that is quite true, shouldn't have overlooked that, so i can now say the formula is
c/fd = 343/fd?

edit: yes i can, thanks a lot nickjer, i got it now.
 

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