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

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SUMMARY

The formula for calculating wave speed through a gas is defined by the equation v = (frequency)(wavelength). In the discussion, the user attempted to calculate the wavelength using the equation .03 = wavelength/2, resulting in a wavelength of .06. However, the user encountered issues with the calculation of wave speed, which was ultimately determined to be 719.76 m/s using a frequency of 11996 Hz. The discussion highlights the importance of considering changes in length when evaluating wave properties.

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road_runner
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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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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:
Ahhh ok! Thanks a million! Never even considered that the length changes in both parts...
 

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