Acoustic Interferometer: Interference with the Quincke Tube.

In summary, the Acoustic Interferometer, specifically the Quincke Tube, uses interference to create patterns and does not produce a unidirectional thrust.
  • #1
pallidin
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Acoustic Interferometer: Interference with the Quincke Tube.
See here:
http://www.mip.berkeley.edu/physics/B+35+05.html

The diagram and physics suggests that acoustic interference is achieved through this simple device. Makes sense to me. However, with the potential for destructive interference it would also suggest that a pulse placed at input(shown as "Fixed frequency whistle. 2900 Hz" on the diagram) can be potentially degraded to efffectually nothing at output("Horn") due to interference if so arranged.
Fine.
Is this to suggest that the input(action) force can be wholly negated from output(reaction) force? That is, if I were to put this mechanism on it's side on a bed of wet ice, with interference tuning, would the mechanism move with unidirectional thrust?
 
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  • #2
No, this would not be possible in this particular case. The Quincke Tube interferometer works by combining two sound waves of the same frequency to create interference patterns that result in a change in amplitude. This does not create a unidirectional thrust as there is no net force created by the interference.
 

Related to Acoustic Interferometer: Interference with the Quincke Tube.

1. What is an acoustic interferometer?

An acoustic interferometer is a scientific instrument used to measure the interference patterns created by sound waves. It typically consists of a source of sound, such as a speaker, and two or more sensors that detect the sound waves.

2. How does the Quincke tube work in an acoustic interferometer?

The Quincke tube is a hollow tube with a small opening at one end and a larger opening at the other. When sound waves pass through the smaller opening, they create a standing wave inside the tube. This standing wave then interferes with the sound waves passing through the larger opening, producing an interference pattern that can be measured.

3. What is the purpose of using a Quincke tube in an acoustic interferometer?

The Quincke tube allows for precise measurements of sound waves by creating a standing wave that can be easily manipulated and measured. It also helps to eliminate unwanted noise and interference from external sources.

4. How is interference measured in an acoustic interferometer?

Interference is measured by analyzing the resulting interference pattern created by the combination of the standing wave in the Quincke tube and the sound waves passing through the larger opening. This can be done through various methods, such as using a microphone or a laser to detect changes in the sound waves.

5. What are some applications of acoustic interferometers?

Acoustic interferometers have a wide range of applications in various fields, including physics, engineering, and medicine. They can be used to study the properties of sound waves, measure the speed of sound in different materials, and even diagnose conditions in the human body through techniques such as ultrasound imaging.

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