Physics · Speed of sound in air at room temperature using a resonance tube
A tuning fork of frequency 500 Hz is sounded on a resonance tube. The first and
A tuning fork of frequency 500 Hz is sounded on a resonance tube. The first and second resonances are obtained at \( 17 \mathrm{cm} \) and \( 52 \mathrm{cm} . \) The velocity of sound is
- A. \( 170 \mathrm{m} / \mathrm{s} \)
- B. \( 350 \mathrm{m} / \mathrm{s} \)
- C. \( 520 \mathrm{m} / \mathrm{s} \)
- D. \( 850 \mathrm{m} / \mathrm{s} \)
Step-by-step solution
For a resonance tube closed at one end, first resonance at L1 = λ/4, second at L2 = 3λ/4. Difference L2 - L1 = λ/2 = 52 cm - 17 cm = 35 cm = 0.35 m, so λ = 0.70 m. Velocity v = fλ = 500 Hz × 0.70 m = 350 m/s.