Chapter 26, Problem 20A

How does interference of sound relate to beats?

To determine

The relationship between sound waves and beats.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Like any other waves, the sound waves can also be made to interfere. In case of sound waves, the crest of the wave can be considered as the compression while the trough of the wave can be taken as the rarefaction.

If one tries to hear two tones of slightly different frequencies mixed together, a continuous fluctuation in the loudness can be observed in a combined form. Hence, the sound so produced will be up and down and so on. So, the beats can be defined as a periodic fluctuation of the sound.

Beats can be observed when two tuning forks of mismatched frequencies are heard together. Due to which, the vibrations will be in step then out of step then in again and so on. Hence, beats can be considered as a special case of interference.

Conclusion:

Hence, it can be concluded that the interference of sound is related to beats.