Calculating slit separation for sound two-slit interference?

In summary, the conversation discusses the construction of an analogous two-slit interference set-up for room-temperature sound of middle-C frequency, using the formula sin(theta)= m(wavelength)/d and the values provided. The answer to the problem is 640, which can be derived by setting the two frequencies equal to each other and using the correct velocity for sound waves.
  • #1
fwFAWFSERG
11
0
SOLVED

Homework Statement



A two-slit interference set-up with slit separation d =0.30 mm produces interference fringes at a particular set of angles THETAm (where m = 0, 1, 2,) for red light of frequency f = 4.9×10^14 hz.

If one wishes to construct an analogous two-slit interference set-up that produces interference fringes at the same set of angles THETAm for room-temperature sound of middle-C frequency f = 262 hz, what should the slit separation distance be for this analogous set-up?
this particular problems answer is 640 but i can't seem to arrive at that

Homework Equations


sin(theta)= m(wavelength)/d

The Attempt at a Solution


i believe sin(theta) is equalin both, so i don't see why it wouldn't come down to wavelenth/d is proprotional to wavelenth/d, or converting to frequency 1/fd = 1/fd or fd=fd.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You know [tex]\lambda = v/f[/tex], but they both have different velocities so you can't use fd = fd.
 
  • #3
arent their velocities equal at c, being the speed of light?
 
  • #4
room-temperature sound of middle-C frequency f = 262 hz

Sound doesn't travel at the speed of light. At least not where I live at.
 
  • #5
oh that is quite true, shouldn't have overlooked that, so i can now say the formula is
c/fd = 343/fd?

edit: yes i can, thanks a lot nickjer, i got it now.
 

FAQ: Calculating slit separation for sound two-slit interference?

What is two-slit interference?

Two-slit interference is a phenomenon that occurs when a wave, such as light or sound, passes through two parallel slits and creates a pattern of alternating bright and dark bands on a screen behind the slits. This is due to the wave's interference with itself as it passes through the two slits and combines on the other side.

How does two-slit interference work?

Two-slit interference occurs because waves can interfere with each other. When a wave passes through a slit, it diffracts and spreads out. If there are two slits, the diffracted waves from each slit will overlap and create an interference pattern. This pattern can be seen on a screen placed behind the slits.

What is the difference between constructive and destructive interference in two-slit interference?

In two-slit interference, constructive interference occurs when the peaks of two waves align and produce a larger amplitude wave. This results in a bright band on the screen. Destructive interference occurs when the peaks of one wave align with the troughs of another, canceling out the wave and creating a dark band on the screen.

What is the significance of two-slit interference in science?

Two-slit interference is significant because it demonstrates the wave nature of light and other types of waves. It also allows scientists to study the properties of waves, such as wavelength and frequency, by analyzing the interference pattern. This phenomenon has also been used in various technologies, such as diffraction gratings, which are used in devices like CD players and spectrometers.

How can the two-slit interference pattern be altered?

The two-slit interference pattern can be altered by changing the distance between the two slits, the distance between the slits and the screen, and the wavelength of the waves passing through the slits. Additionally, changing the shape or size of the slits can also affect the interference pattern. Altering these variables can result in a different interference pattern or even no interference pattern at all.

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
5K
Replies
9
Views
6K
Replies
6
Views
4K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Back
Top