10. The speed of sound

How can we measure the speed of sound experimentally?

The speed of sound is 340 m/s in air.

Using the video, calculate how far away the lightning strikes are by counting in seconds the time delay between seeing the flash of lightning and hearing the sound of the thunder.

distance (m) = speed (m/s) x time (s)

Summative Assessment

Based on this information, plan an investigation to accurately measure the speed of sound using equipment found in the laboratory and the school's grounds.

You will be assessed on Criteria B: Inquiring and designing

At the end of year 3, students should be able to:

i. describe a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. outline a testable hypothesis and explain it using scientific reasoning

iii. describe how to manipulate the variables, and describe how data will be collected

iv. design scientific investigations.