Speed of Sound Calculation via Echo
An echo occurs when sound waves reflect off a surface. The sound travels from the source (cracker) to the reflecting surface (building) and then back to the observer.
Given:
- Distance to the building, \(d = 99 \text{ m}\)
- Time taken for the echo to be heard, \(t = 0.6 \text{ s}\)
The total distance traveled by the sound wave is twice the distance to the building, as it travels there and back.
Total distance, \(d_{total} = 2 \times d\)
\(d_{total} = 2 \times 99 \text{ m} = 198 \text{ m}\)
The speed of sound (\(v\)) is calculated using the formula:
\(v = \frac{\text{Total Distance}}{\text{Time taken}} = \frac{d_{total}}{t}\)
Substituting the values:
\(v = \frac{198 \text{ m}}{0.6 \text{ s}}\)
\(v = \frac{1980}{6} \text{ m/s}\)
\(v = 330 \text{ m/s}\)
Therefore, the speed of sound is 330 m/s.
Important Questions from The Speed of Sound
The speed of a longitudinal wave in a solid bar is given by v = √(X/ρ), where 'ρ' is density of the medium. What is the unknown term 'X'?
At standard temperature and pressure, in which of the following media does sound propagate with the greatest speed?
The velocity of sound in air is affected by change in the
I. Moisture content of air
II. Temperature of air
III. Composition of air
IV. Atmospheric pressure
Choose the correct answer.
Velocity of sound is maximum in:
What is the relation between the frequency f, wavelength λ, and speed v of the sound?
