Measuring the speed of sound in air and solids
I can describe how to measure the speed of sound in air and in a solid metal rod.
Measuring the speed of sound in air and solids
I can describe how to measure the speed of sound in air and in a solid metal rod.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The speed of sound in air is about 340 m/s.
- The speed of sound in air can be measured using an echo method and using speed = distance/time.
- The speed of sound in a metal rod can be found by measuring the length and the frequency produced when struck.
- A result is accurate if it is close to the true value.
- A result can be considered accurate if it is repeatable, reproducible and if systematic errors have been checked for.
Common misconception
If measurements are repeatable (or precise) then they will also be accurate.
Repeatable (or precise) measurements may involve a systematic error making them inaccurate.
Keywords
Synchronisation - Synchronisation is the process of ensuring two (or more) things happen at the same time.
Period - The period of a wave is the time taken for one oscillation.
Wavelength - The wavelength of a wave is the distance a wave travels during one period.
Accurate - A result is accurate if it is close to the true value.
Systematic error - A systematic error affects all results by the same amount.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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