Math Problem Statement

The speed of sound at a certain temperature is 345.0 m/s. The wavelength of the first resonance of a tuning fork is 0.62 m. What is the frequency of the tuning fork? You must show your work in order to get credit for the problem.

Solution

To determine the frequency of the tuning fork, we use the wave equation:

v=fλv = f \lambda

where:

  • vv is the speed of sound (345.0345.0 m/s),
  • ff is the frequency of the wave (which we need to find),
  • λ\lambda is the wavelength (0.620.62 m).

Step 1: Solve for Frequency

Rearrange the equation to solve for ff:

f=vλf = \frac{v}{\lambda}

Substituting the given values:

f=345.0 m/s0.62 mf = \frac{345.0 \text{ m/s}}{0.62 \text{ m}}

f=556.45 Hzf = 556.45 \text{ Hz}

Final Answer:

556.45 Hz\boxed{556.45 \text{ Hz}}

This means the tuning fork vibrates at approximately 556.45 Hz, producing sound at this frequency.


Do you need further explanation or details on the calculation?

Here are five related questions to expand on this concept:

  1. How does temperature affect the speed of sound?
  2. What is the relationship between frequency and pitch in sound waves?
  3. How would the frequency change if the wavelength were doubled?
  4. What is the second resonance wavelength for this tuning fork?
  5. How does the medium (air, water, metal) affect the speed of sound?

Tip:

The speed of sound increases with temperature because warmer air has more energetic molecules, allowing sound waves to propagate faster.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Wave equation
Frequency
Wavelength

Formulas

v = f * λ
f = v / λ

Theorems

Wave equation

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11