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What is the relationship of frequency to absorption?

a) If frequency is halved, absorption is doubled.
b) If frequency is doubled, absorption is doubled.
c) If frequency is doubled, absorption is halved.
d) If frequency is halved, absorption is quartered.
e) the rate of sound absorption is not frequency-dependent.

User Bruce Lim
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Final answer:

The rate of sound absorption can be frequency-dependent, but it does not follow a simple pattern of doubling or halving with changes in frequency. The velocity of a wave is primarily determined by the medium, not by its frequency. The Doppler Effect explains how relative motion between sound source and observer affects perceived frequency, with closer motion resulting in higher frequency and motion away leading to lower frequency.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship between frequency and absorption is neither simple nor linear, and it can vary greatly depending on the medium and the nature of the waves. For sound waves in particular, absorption can depend on factors such as the material's acoustic properties, temperature, and frequency of the sound wave. However, there is not a direct proportional relationship between frequency and absorption that can be generalized as options a through d suggest. The rate of sound absorption can be frequency-dependent, but this cannot be strictly quantified in the terms provided. It is important to note that the rate of sound absorption often increases with frequency, but not in a manner that is directly proportional or can be expressed as a simple mathematical function like doubling or halving. Additionally, sound absorption is greatly influenced by other factors, such as the characteristics of the absorbing material (e.g., its porosity, density, and thickness).

In terms of the wave's velocity, there may be a misunderstanding. The velocity of a wave is determined by the medium through which it travels and is not typically influenced by the frequency. Therefore, statements about changes in velocity based on frequency are generally incorrect. However, the Doppler Effect illustrates that when there is relative motion between a source of sound and an observer, the observed frequency of the sound will change. An observer moving toward the sound source will perceive a higher frequency, while an observer moving away will perceive a lower frequency.

It is incorrect to say that the amplitude of a sound wave decreases with distance from its source because of a decrease in frequency. While amplitude typically decreases with distance due to the spreading of the wave energy, it is not dependent on the sound wave's frequency.

User Paaacman
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