Calculating Distance with Sound Waves

In summary, the instant camera uses sound waves to determine distance and it takes 8.75 x 10^-3 seconds for the echo to return if the subject is 3.00m away. The total distance traveled by the sound is actually 6m.
  • #1
whitehorsey
192
0
1. A certain instant camera determines the distance to the subject by sending out a sound wave and measuring the time needed for the echo to return to the camera. How long would it take the sound wave to return to the camera if the subject were 3.00 m away?


2. d = vt



3. d = vt
3 = 343t
t = 8.75 x 10^-3 sec

im not sure if this is correct.
 
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  • #2


How far is the sound actually traveling in total? Is it really just 3m?
 
  • #3


danago said:
How far is the sound actually traveling in total? Is it really just 3m?

yep its just 3m
 
  • #4


It travels 3m getting there, but what about the trip back to the camera? Its got to travel another 3m, for a total of 6m.
 
  • #5


oh i see thank you! :]
 

FAQ: Calculating Distance with Sound Waves

1. What is a sound wave?

A sound wave is a type of longitudinal wave that travels through a medium, such as air or water, and carries energy from one point to another. It is created by a disturbance or vibration, and can be perceived by the human ear as sound.

2. How is the speed of sound calculated?

The speed of sound in a medium is dependent on the properties of that medium, such as density and elasticity. It can be calculated using the formula: speed = wavelength x frequency, or v = λf, where v is the speed of sound, λ is the wavelength, and f is the frequency.

3. What factors affect the pitch of a sound wave?

The pitch of a sound wave is determined by its frequency, with higher frequencies producing higher pitches. The medium through which the sound travels can also affect the pitch, as well as the size and shape of the object creating the sound.

4. How does the amplitude of a sound wave affect its loudness?

The amplitude of a sound wave refers to its maximum displacement from the equilibrium point. The larger the amplitude, the louder the sound will be perceived. This is because a larger amplitude means the sound wave carries more energy, resulting in a stronger vibration of the eardrum.

5. Can sound waves travel through a vacuum?

No, sound waves require a medium to travel through. In a vacuum, there is no medium for the sound to travel through, so it cannot be heard. This is why sound waves cannot travel through outer space, which is mostly a vacuum.

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