Blundell Thermal Physics · Problem 31.3

Sound waves

Physics — Statistical Mechanics · adiabatic-vs-isothermal-sound-waves

Problem

For sound waves in air of frequency (a) 1 Hz1\,\text{Hz} and (b) 20 kHz20\,\text{kHz} estimate both the wavelength λ\lambda of the sound wave and the skin depth δ\delta (the characteristic depth to which a thermal wave of this frequency will diffuse). Hence show that sound waves are invariably adiabatic and not isothermal. For what frequency would δ=λ\delta = \lambda?

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