University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 16 - Sound and Hearing - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 538: Q16.15

Answer

The interference is destructive.

Work Step by Step

The wavelength of the sound is $\lambda=\frac{v}{f}=\frac{344\frac{m}{s}}{860Hz}=0.4 m$. Consider diagram 16.21 in the textbook. The difference in path lengths to the speakers is 13.4m-12.0m = 1.4 m. This is equal to $3.5 \lambda$. Sounds from the speakers arrive at point P out of phase by 3.5 cycles, so the interference is destructive.
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