Calculating Energy in Sound Wave

[lhphysics]

Homework Statement

How does the sound energy level produced by woodwind instruments (a piccolo, a clarinet, and a bassoon) compare to the sound energy level produced by string instruments (a violin, a cello, and a double bass) and brass instruments (a trumpet, a trombone, and a tuba)?

I am doing a group 4 IB physics project in which I attempt to answer the above question.

I need a straightforward, quick response that will give me an equation to calculate the energy present in the different waves.

I am using a scope that will allow me to determine the frequency, amplitude, speed, and wavelength of each instruments wave and I need to somehow relate the energy present in the wave to the data I am able to collect.

Homework Equations

I know that E=1/2kA^2 but my problem with this equation is that I am not sure how I would determine what the value of k is for each wave.

The Attempt at a Solution

As mentioned above, I have tried to look into the E=1/2kA^2 equation but am having difficulty with the value of k. I have searched in every spot I could think of to help with this and have returned empty handed. Any guidance in the correct direction would be appreciated.

 

[anathema]

Hello,

The equation you have mentioned, E=1/2kA^2, is known as the energy equation for a simple harmonic oscillator. This equation can be applied to sound waves as well, as sound waves can be considered as a type of wave motion.

In order to determine the value of k for each wave, you will need to calculate the spring constant (k) for each instrument. This can be done by measuring the frequency and wavelength of each instrument's wave using your scope, and then using the equation k=4π^2mf^2, where m is the mass of the vibrating medium (air) and f is the frequency.

Once you have calculated the spring constant for each instrument, you can plug it into the energy equation to calculate the energy present in each wave. Keep in mind that the amplitude (A) in this equation refers to the maximum displacement of the vibrating medium, which can be measured using your scope as well.

I hope this helps in your project. Good luck!