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The Effects of Temperature and Material on the Speed of Sound in a Gas

CSEF · 2017 Physics & Astronomy Third Award

Corina Dunn · Westridge School, Pasadena, Los Angeles County

Overview

Objectives/Goals This project was designed to test how temperature and material affect the speed of sound in a gas. I tested the hypothesis that if the temperature is changed, then the speed of sound is proportional to temperature. I also tested the hypothesis that if the material is changed, then the speed of sound is inversely related to the molecular weight of the gas. Methods/Materials To perform the measurements, an ultrasonic range finder was attached to one side of a 1 m long, 4-in. diameter PVC pipe. The ultrasonic range finder was used to determine the speed of sound at various temperatures through air, and near room temperature for carbon dioxide and helium. To heat the air, the PVC pipe was wrapped in an electric blanket, and a towel for insulation. To cool the air, the PVC pipe was covered in ice, and a towel for insulation. A kitchen thermometer was used to measure the temperature. Results As the temperature increased, so did the speed of sound at a rate of 0.6739 (m/s)/degree K. This agrees well with the accepted rate of 0.6(m/s)/degree K. The speed of sound in helium was measured to be much higher than that of air, but the equipment was unable to measure the exact speed. The speed of sound in carbon dioxide at 292.04° Kelvin was measured as 277.70 m/s. This is similar to the accepted speed of sound for 292.04° Kelvin in carbon dioxide, which is 266.67 m/s. Conclusions/Discussion The results concurred with the hypothesis; in a gas, the speed of sound is proportional to temperature and inversely related to the molecular weight of the material. Sources of error are discussed.

Summary statement

I measured that, in a gas, the speed of sound is proportional to temperature and inversely related to the molecular weight of the material.

Help received

I received general advice from my parents, as well as some help with power tools during construction of the apparatus. I discussed my results with my parents.

Awards (1)

Competition history

  • CSEF 2017 Physics & Astronomy · Entry J1805

Resources

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