Looking at this simple light problem

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In summary, the conversation discusses the question of why a pillar in a concert hall can block the view of the audience but has little effect on their hearing. The options provided suggest that the difference lies in the nature of light as a transverse EM wave and sound as a longitudinal pressure wave, as well as their respective wavelengths and speed. The conversation also mentions the concept of diffraction and suggests that the longer wavelength of sound may contribute to its ability to bend around obstacles. Further research is recommended to compare the typical wavelengths of visible light and sound.
  • #1
qazxsw11111
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Homework Statement


Hi everyone! This question is very simple, but I just cannot think of anything to explain it.

The question is: A pillar in a concert hall can block the view of the audience but it has little effect on their hearing. Why?

1)Light is a transverse wave while sound is a longitudinal wave.
2)Light is a EM wave but sound is a pressure wave.
3)Light has a smaller/larger (cant remember) wavelength compared to sound.
4)Light travels faster than sound.


All the options are tricky for me but I still put 2 as it is instinct (somewhat, but still no sense whatsoever). However, the answer is wrong and I still do not know the answer.

Anyone help?

Thanks.:blushing:
 
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  • #2
What determines how light--or any other wave--bends around an obstacle? (Look up diffraction.)
 
  • #3
Ok...So diffraction. The longer the wavelength, the more it diffracts right? So sound has a longer wavelength?
 
  • #4
qazxsw11111 said:
The longer the wavelength, the more it diffracts right?
Right.
So sound has a longer wavelength?
I'm not telling! Look up the typical wavelengths for visible light and for sound. Compare.
 

FAQ: Looking at this simple light problem

What is the simple light problem?

The simple light problem refers to a common scientific experiment where a beam of light is passed through a glass prism, causing it to refract and split into a spectrum of colors.

Why does light behave differently when passing through a prism?

Light behaves differently when passing through a prism due to the phenomenon of refraction, which is the bending of light as it passes through different mediums with varying densities. The different wavelengths of light are refracted at different angles, causing them to separate and create a spectrum.

What is the scientific explanation for the colors seen in the spectrum?

The different colors seen in the spectrum are a result of the varying wavelengths of light being refracted at different angles. Each color has a different wavelength, with red having the longest wavelength and violet having the shortest.

Can the simple light problem be used to study other scientific concepts?

Yes, the simple light problem can be used to study other scientific concepts such as the properties of light, the principles of refraction, and the nature of color. It can also be used to demonstrate the concept of the electromagnetic spectrum.

How is the simple light problem relevant in modern science?

The simple light problem is still relevant in modern science as it is the basis for many advanced scientific techniques, such as spectroscopy, which is used to analyze the composition of substances and identify elements. It also has applications in fields such as astronomy, where the study of light from distant objects can provide valuable information about their properties and composition.

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