How Sound Travels

(a) Investigate the speed of sound in air and write this up for your portfolio including photos/diagrams.

Speed (m/s) = Distance (m) / Time (s)

(b) Compare your value to the real value (about 340 m/s).  Then calculate how long it would take for a sound wave to travel the length of the school hall (the venue for which you are designing a sound system).

Extension: Large venues often have a second set of speakers halfway along the audience area.  Why could this be a problem and what equipment is used to overcome it?  Include a worked example if possible.

(c) Research online how the temperature, pressure and humidity of air affects the speed of sound.  Include as much detail as possible but make sure it is accurate and that you have understood what you’re writing.  Include references to all sources you have used.