Wavelength of sound and windspeed

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter nil1996
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    Sound Wavelength
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effect of wind on the wavelength of sound when both the source and observer are at rest. Participants explore the relationship between wind speed and sound speed, considering how this interaction influences the perceived wavelength of sound waves.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether wind affects the wavelength of sound when both the source and observer are stationary.
  • Another participant suggests that if the wind speed is u and the sound speed is v, the observer might perceive the sound at a speed of v+u, leading to the idea that the wavelength remains unchanged as compressions move with the wind.
  • A different participant raises the need to clarify what the wavelength is being compared to, suggesting that the wind moves compressions away from the source, affecting their speed.
  • One participant proposes a formula for wavelength as (v+c)/f, where f is the frequency, indicating a relationship between wind speed and sound propagation.
  • Another participant discusses the timing of compressions, suggesting that the wind carries the first compression further before the next one is released.
  • A later reply introduces a hypothetical scenario where both the source and detector are moving in still air, prompting further exploration of the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on how wind affects the wavelength of sound, with no consensus reached on the implications of wind speed versus sound speed. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact relationship between these factors.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully defined the conditions under which their arguments apply, and there are unresolved aspects regarding the comparison of wavelengths in different scenarios.

nil1996
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Both source and observer are at rest. If the wind blows from source to observer will the wind affect the wavelength of sound??
 
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Excellent question: how are attempting to answer it so far?
 
i am thinking like if the wind speed is u and sound speed is v then the observer will notice that the sound is at speed v+u. Wave length is the distance between two compressions. The wind is moving the whole medium with the speed u. So i think there will be no change in wavelength as the successive compressions will be both moving at an additional speed u. Is that right??
 
I think the issue here is what we are comparing the wavelength to.
The wavelength without the wind perhaps?
And with respect to whome?

So the source makes compressions and rarifactions with period T.
The wind whips them away ... so instead of moving at speed c, they move at speed c+v.
 
oh,got it so the wavelength should be (v+c)/f
f = frequency
 
The wind takes the first compression made by the source further by c*T before the second compression is released.Right??
 
That's what I figured - but it's your work.

What if the air was still but both source and detector were moving?
 

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