Waves, Sound, and Light: Sound and Music

Sound and Music: Audio Guided Solution

Extra Problem 1:

The fundamental frequency of an open organ pipe corresponds to 379.7 Hz. The third resonance of a closed organ pipe has the same frequency. What is the length (in centimeters) of the closed-end pipe? (Assume a speed of sound in air of 343 m/s.) (The 'third resonance' means the 'third harmonic.')

Audio Guided Solution

Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

• Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
• Identify the known and unknown quantities and record in an organized manner, often times they can be recorded on the diagram itself. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity (e.g., v = 12.8 m/s, λ = 4.52 m, f = ???).
• Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
• Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
• Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Sound and Music at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

• Speed of Sound
• Intensity and the Decibel Scale
• Standing Wave Patterns
• Fundamental Frequency and Harmonics
• Physics of Guitar Strings
• Open-End Air Columns
• Closed-End Air Columns
• Interference and Beat Formation

Return to Original Problem Set

Return to Index of Extra Problems

Return to Overview