Measuring the Speed of Sound with an Echo

Students will first predict the speed of sound in the air of their classroom using a simple relationship accounting for temperature. Students will measure the time it takes a short pulse of sound to travel the length of a tube, reflect off the closed end, and return. Using this measurement, they will calculate the speed of sound and compare it to their prediction.

Grade Level: High School

Subject: Physics

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Measuring the Speed of Sound Using an Echo

Measure the time it takes a short pulse of sound to travel the length of a tube, reflect off the closed end, and return. Using this measurement, calculate the...

Featured Equipment

Resonance Air Column

Resonance Air Column

Resonance tube with plunger, node markers and detachable stands for performing waves and sound experiments.

Wireless Sound Sensor

Wireless Sound Sensor

The Wireless Sound Sensor measures sound wave forms and sound level in one compact and portable sensor.

Physics Starter Lab Station

Physics Starter Lab Station

This starter Lab Station includes the wireless motion, force, current and voltage sensors used to perform some of the key lab activities from the Physics Lab Station Investigations manual.

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Many lab activities can be conducted with our Wireless, PASPORT, or even ScienceWorkshop sensors and equipment. For assistance with substituting compatible instruments, contact PASCO Technical Support. We're here to help.

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