What is the formula for calculating wave speed through a gas?

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of finding lambda using the equation .03 = wavelength/2 and plugging it into the equation v = (frequency)(wavelength). However, this method did not work. The conversation then shifts to reevaluating the length of the path LYM when a section is pulled out by 0.03 m. It is noted that the length changes in both the top and bottom parts of the section.
  • #1
road_runner
2
0
Screen shot 2011-03-15 at 3.50.00 PM.png


I tried finding lambda:
.03 = wavelength/2 --> wavelength = (.03)(2) = .06

Then plugging that into the equation
v = (frequency)(wavelength) --> v = (11996)(.06) = 719.76

But that didn't work.
 
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  • #2
Hello road_runner,

Welcome to Physics Forums!
road_runner said:
I tried finding lambda:
.03 = wavelength/2 --> wavelength = (.03)(2) = .06

[...]

But that didn't work.
Reevaluate the comparative length of the path LYM, when the section is pulled out by 0.03 m. The LYM section can be broken up into two parts: the length of the top part and the length of the bottom part.

When the sliding section is pulled out, the LYM distance increases by 0.03 m due to the increase in length of the top part, and yet another 0.03 m care of the bottom part. :wink:
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Ahhh ok! Thanks a million! Never even considered that the length changes in both parts...
 

1. What is the formula for calculating wave speed in a gas?

The formula for calculating wave speed through a gas is v = √(γRT/M), where v is the wave speed in meters per second, γ is the adiabatic index of the gas, R is the gas constant, T is the temperature in Kelvin, and M is the molar mass of the gas in kilograms per mole.

2. How does temperature affect the speed of sound in a gas?

The speed of sound in a gas is directly proportional to the square root of the temperature. This means that as the temperature increases, the speed of sound also increases.

3. Does the composition of the gas affect the wave speed?

Yes, the composition of the gas does affect the wave speed. The molar mass and adiabatic index of the gas are both factors in the calculation of wave speed, so a change in the gas composition can result in a change in the wave speed.

4. How does wave speed through a gas compare to wave speed through a liquid or solid?

Generally, wave speed through a gas is much faster than through a liquid or solid. This is because gases have more space between particles, allowing for faster propagation of waves.

5. Why is the speed of sound through a gas not constant?

The speed of sound through a gas is affected by various factors such as temperature, pressure, and gas composition. Changes in these factors can result in changes in the speed of sound, making it not constant.

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