STUDENT INFORMATION

Experiment 9.2: Speed of Sound

How fast does sound travel?

In this experiment, you'll measure the speed of sound in air by timing how long it takes for a sound to travel a known distance.

Materials Needed:

Affects sound speed: 343 m/s
Negative = headwind, Positive = tailwind

Measurements:

Distance: 50 meters

Time: 0.000 seconds

Speed: 0 m/s

Effective Speed: 0 m/s

Environmental Effects:
  • Base speed of sound: 343 m/s
  • Temperature effect: +0 m/s
  • Wind effect: +0 m/s
  • Humidity effect: minimal
Record your observations:

Procedure:

  1. Setup

    Find an open area outdoors. Measure and mark a distance of at least 50 meters.

    Safety Note: Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from any metal particles when striking the pots.

  2. Position

    Have your partner stand at one end with one pot and the metal spoon. You stand at the other end with the second pot and the stopwatch.

  3. Measurement

    Your partner will raise the spoon high enough for you to see, then strike their pot. Start your stopwatch when you see the spoon hit and stop it when you hear the sound.

  4. Calculate

    Record the time in seconds. Calculate the speed of sound using the formula: Speed = Distance ÷ Time

  5. Repeat

    Repeat the measurement 5 times and calculate the average speed.

Data Collection:

Trial Distance (m) Time (s) Speed (m/s)
1 0
2 0
3 0
4 0
5 0
Average Speed: 0

Analysis:

Based on your measurements, answer these questions:

  1. How close was your measured speed to the actual speed of sound (approximately 343 m/s at room temperature)?
  2. What factors might have affected your measurements?
  3. Why is it important to see the spoon hit before starting the timer?
  4. How might temperature affect the speed of sound?