Calculating Wavelengths of Soundwaves: v = λ*f

  • Thread starter Denver Dang
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In summary, the formula v = \lambda*f can be used to calculate the wavelength of soundwaves at different frequencies. Based on this formula, a 10 Hz soundwave would have a wavelength of 34.3 m and a 20,000 Hz soundwave would have a wavelength of 1.715 cm. However, when considering the thickness of a wall needed to stop these soundwaves, other factors such as the speed of sound in different materials must also be taken into account. Therefore, the thickness of the wall needed may vary depending on the material it is made of.
  • #1
Denver Dang
148
1
A little question I hope you can help me with.
If you got the low frequency bass notes and some high notes as well.
Then you have the formula:
v = [tex]\lambda[/tex]*f

A quick calculation gives you a wavelength of 34,3 m for af 10 Hz soundwave and 1.715 cm for a 20.000 Hz soundwave.

Does that mean that I would need a 34,4 m wall to stop the waves of a 10 Hz soundwave, if we imagine that wall being infinitetly tall and wide, and then only 1.716 cm wall to stop the waves from a 20.000 Hz soundwave ?

Or is there some other factors that play along ?


Regards
 
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  • #2
Presumably you worked out the wavelength in air.

Have you thought that the speed of sound might change in the wall?
 
  • #3
I've thought of that yes. But do you have to calculate the wall-thickness depending on the material that the wall is made of ?
So if the wall is made of material that doubles the speed of sound, compared to air, the wavelength doubles and you need a thicker wall ?
Or is it a mixture of both ? :S
 

FAQ: Calculating Wavelengths of Soundwaves: v = λ*f

What is the formula for calculating the wavelength of a sound wave?

The formula for calculating the wavelength of a sound wave is v = λ*f, where v is the velocity of the wave, λ (lambda) is the wavelength, and f is the frequency.

What is the unit of measurement for wavelength of a sound wave?

The unit of measurement for wavelength of a sound wave is meters (m).

How do you calculate the velocity of a sound wave?

The velocity of a sound wave can be calculated using the formula v = f*λ, where f is the frequency and λ (lambda) is the wavelength.

Can the wavelength of a sound wave change?

Yes, the wavelength of a sound wave can change depending on the medium through which it is traveling. For example, the wavelength of a sound wave will be longer in air compared to the same sound wave traveling through water.

How does frequency affect the wavelength of a sound wave?

Frequency and wavelength of a sound wave are inversely proportional. This means that as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the formula v = λ*f.

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