Speed of Sound

Challenge: To find the speed of sound through analysis of position-time data

Parameters: We will work together as a class to get as much quality video data as possible about the propagation of a pressure wave through air (sound). Your group will be responsible for the accurate recording of the procedures used, data collected, uncertainties experienced, and graphical analysis performed. Your answer must be reported with appropriate precision and include your final estimate of uncertainty.

Scoring: Your answer will be scored based on its accuracy and your estimate of your uncertainty, as follows:

| % difference speed of sound | + | Confidence penalty |*

* Confidence Penalty: This will be the absolute value of the Log₁₀ of the ratio of your relative uncertainty to your actual percent error.

Rank will be based on score, with lowest score earning highest rank.

Physics: A pressure wave is called sound. We are familiar with pressure waves in air. The speed of propagation of such an energy disturbance can be obtained by measuring position and time.

Extensions: The speed of propagation of energy disturbances in a medium depends on the medium itself. Standing energy waves can be used as a completely different method for finding this speed, which we can explore in a later project.

Help/Hints: Have each member of the group try to independently find the measurements needed from the video(s), then compare within the group. What factors can cause disagreement? What does that tell you about uncertainty? How can averaging multiple measurements help reduce uncertainty?

Quiz Topics: Measurement

Uncertainty

Scientific communication

Online Text: chapter 1 (also waves and sound chapters 16, 17, for more information)

Timeline: Day 1 Data collection as a class

Day 2 Analysis

Day 3 Final Result Due