Q.

If the fundamental frequency of a cylinder is 517 Hz, and

the speed of sound is 343 m/s Determine the length of the
cylinder (in m) for each of the following cases:
(a) The cylinder is closed at one end (in m).
(b) The cylinder is open at both ends (in m).

Topic: - Superposition of waves.

Sub-topic: - Superposition of waves in Organ pipe.

Solution: -
(a)
Step 1:
v = λf
where,

f = fundamental frequency
v = speed of sound
λ = wavelength of wave

Explanation:
The fundamental frequency is the lowest frequency that
any vibrating object can have.
Step 2:
Distance between node and anti-node,
l = λ/4 -----------(1)
 v = λf -----------(2)

l = v/4f (Using equation (1) and (2))

l = 0.166 m

Explanation:
Since the cylinder is closed at one end, the wave formed
nodes at closed end and anti-node at open end.

l = λ/4 in fundamental tone

when the cylinder is open at one end,
where,
l = length of cylinder
λ = wavelength of wave

Final Answer:
The length of cylinder when it is closed at one end is 0.166
m.

(b)
Step 1:
v = λf
where,

f = fundamental frequency
v = speed of sound
λ = wavelength of wave

Explanation:
The fundamental frequency is the lowest frequency that
any vibrating object can have.

Step 2:
Distance between two anti-nodes,
l = λ/2 -----------(3)

v = λf -----------(4)

l = v/2f (Using equation (3) and (4))

l = 0.332 m
Explanation:
Since the cylinder is open at both ends, the wave form
anti-nodes at both ends.

l = λ/2 in fundamental tone when the cylinder is open at both

ends,
 where,
l = length of cylinder
λ = wavelength of wave

Final Answer:
The length of cylinder when it is open at both ends is 0.332
m.