Chapter 12, Problem 9RQ

How does the angle of incidence compare with the angle of reflection for sound ?

To determine

The comparison between angle of incidence and angle of reflection of sound.

Answer to Problem 9RQ

The angle of incidence and angle of reflection for sound are equal.

Explanation of Solution

The sound wave propagates in a medium because of which it is able to travel in the surrounding. Sound wave gets reflect back when it hit with a rigid or smooth surface. The reflection of a sound wave is known as an echo. The sound returning back from the smooth surface is in the same way as light coming back after striking. The sound gets reflected back on the surface, having soft or porous material.

The angle of incidence of the sound and angle of reflection both are equal to each other. This means that the angle of sound from the normal of the surface is the same as the angle made by a reflected wave from the normal.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the angle of incidence and angle of reflection for sound are equal.