Physics

Problem

The position of a sound compression front is recorded every second, giving the following distance–time points:

(0\,\text{m},\,0\,\text{s})

and

(1020\,\text{m},\,3\,\text{s})

. Calculate the speed of the sound wave. a)

680\,\text{m/s}

340\,\text{m/s}

255\,\text{m/s}

510\,\text{m/s}

Intuitive explanation

Speed is just how far something travels per unit time—here, you're finding the average velocity of the compression front by dividing total distance by total time. The key is recognizing that the sound wave travels in a straight line at constant speed, so the slope of the distance–time graph gives you exactly what you need. Just be careful with your units and make sure distance and time are in the same consistent system.

Intuitive explanation

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