Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the phenomenon of shattering a glass using human voice, as demonstrated in an episode of Mythbusters. Participants explore the frequency and amplitude required for this effect, referencing both the show and historical anecdotes related to opera singers.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant notes that a glass shattered at 550 Hz and 105 decibels, suggesting this is a confirmation of longstanding rumors about the ability to shatter glass with voice.
- Another participant questions how the frequency was selected, proposing that it relates to the fundamental frequency of the glass.
- It is mentioned that the glass was 'rang' and analyzed with a frequency analyzer to determine resonant frequencies.
- Some participants discuss the Memorex commercials featuring an opera singer, questioning whether the demonstration was genuine or involved amplification.
- A participant describes the process of finding the resonant frequency by ear and using a straw to observe vibrations in the glass, emphasizing the difficulty of achieving the necessary amplitude without amplification.
- There are references to historical claims about opera singers being able to shatter glass, with one participant noting a claim about Caruso that was later contradicted by his wife.
- Another participant mentions the danger of attempting to shatter glass at close range, suggesting that fear may prevent people from fully exerting their voice.
- There is a tangent discussion about Eastern Monks and their rumored abilities, with some participants expressing skepticism about these claims.
- A later post identifies the note used as F above middle C, but there is uncertainty about the exact frequency and its tuning.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a range of views on the validity of the Mythbusters demonstration, the historical context of similar claims, and the specifics of the frequency used. No consensus is reached regarding the accuracy of the claims about opera singers or the nature of the demonstrations in the commercials.
Contextual Notes
There are unresolved questions about the exact frequency and tuning of the note used to shatter the glass, as well as the implications of historical claims regarding opera singers and their abilities.
