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arXiv · 0712.1577

A time of flight method to measure the speed of sound using a stereo sound card

Carlos C. Carvalho·J. M. B. Lopes dos Santos·M. B. Marques
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Abstract

We present an inexpensive apparatus for measuring the speed of sound, with a time of flight method, using a computer with a stereo sound board. Students measure the speed of sound by timing the delay between the arrivals of a pulse to two microphones placed at different distances from the source. It can serve as a very effective demonstration, providing a quick measurement of the speed of sound in air; we have used it with great success in Open Days in our Department. It can also be used for a full fledged laboratory determination of the speed of sound in air.

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Carlos C. Carvalho, J. M. B. Lopes dos Santos, M. B. Marques. 2007-12-10. A time of flight method to measure the speed of sound using a stereo sound card. https://doi.org/10.1119/1.2981293

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