- #1
Durran
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Is it possible (or even practical) to create a device that can harness the power of sound waves?
Energy from Sound Waves? Is it Possible?
- Thread starter Durran
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In summary, the conversation discusses the practicality of creating a device that can harness the power of sound waves. A microphone is mentioned as a possible example, but it is noted that the sound power of usual sound waves is relatively low. The concept of using sound power in freezing machines is mentioned, as well as the phenomenon of sonoluminescence. The conversation also delves into the idea of using sound waves to generate electricity, specifically in reference to the Giza Pyramids.
- #2
jdavel
- 617
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Durran,
Ever hear of a microphone? :-)
Ever hear of a microphone? :-)
- #3
Clausius2
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As far as I know usual sound waves have little energy. The sound power exerted by a complete football stadium roughly mades a cup of tea.
I don't remember, but I think that in General Engineering forum there is a thread about sound power used in freezing machines. Take a look at there.
I don't remember, but I think that in General Engineering forum there is a thread about sound power used in freezing machines. Take a look at there.
- #4
kirovman
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jdavel said:
You need to increase the gain of a signal on a microphone though?
As for harnessing sound waves...try shouting at a windmill
- #5
Galileo
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Useless fact: If you yelled for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days, you would have produced enough sound energy to heat one cup of coffee.
- #6
Mk
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonoluminescence
This is a phenomonon known as sonoluminescence, when bubbles are disturbed by sound, they pop and give off light.
This is a phenomonon known as sonoluminescence, when bubbles are disturbed by sound, they pop and give off light.
- #7
jdavel
- 617
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kirovman
"You need to increase the gain of a signal on a microphone though?"
You mean you need to amplify it? Not if all you're trying to do is "harness the power of sound waves" which was what the original question was about.
"You need to increase the gain of a signal on a microphone though?"
You mean you need to amplify it? Not if all you're trying to do is "harness the power of sound waves" which was what the original question was about.
- #8
T.Roc
more relevant, but perhaps still useless fact: a trained opera singer could yell a tone resonant with the cup & coffee and shatter it in <60 seconds.
- #9
Artman
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There is a pseudoscience theory that suggests that the Giza Pyramids were built to capture and amplify the resonance of the Earth to generate electricty. The author's name is Christopher Dunn and the book was "The Giza Power Plant." Interesting details about the pryamids in that book, even if the theory is unproven, or hairbrained.
FAQ: Energy from Sound Waves? Is it Possible?
Can sound waves be converted into usable energy?
Yes, sound waves can be converted into usable energy through a process called piezoelectricity. This involves using certain materials, such as crystals or ceramics, which can generate an electrical charge when subjected to pressure or vibrations from sound waves.
How efficient is the conversion of sound waves into energy?
The efficiency of converting sound waves into energy varies depending on the materials and technology used. Currently, the most efficient piezoelectric materials have an efficiency of about 20-30%, which means that only a portion of the sound wave energy can be converted into usable electricity.
What are some potential applications of energy from sound waves?
The most common application of energy from sound waves is in microphones and speakers, where the sound waves are converted into electrical signals for communication and entertainment purposes. Other potential applications include using piezoelectric materials in buildings to capture energy from vibrations and using sound waves to power small devices or sensors in remote locations.
Are there any environmental concerns with using sound waves to generate energy?
There are no major environmental concerns with using sound waves to generate energy, as it is a renewable and clean source of energy. However, there may be some concerns with the materials used in the piezoelectric process and their potential impact on the environment.
How does the amount of energy generated from sound waves compare to other renewable energy sources?
The amount of energy generated from sound waves is relatively low compared to other renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power. However, it can still be a valuable source of energy, especially in specific applications where other sources may not be feasible. Research is ongoing to improve the efficiency and scalability of sound wave energy technology.