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Chapter 30, Problem 1FTD
To determine

Why it is inappropriate to consider low-frequency sound wave as travelling rays and why is the ray approximation more appropriate for high-frequency sound and for light.

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Answer to Problem 1FTD

If the light wave or sound wave interacts with objects which is much larger than the wavelength of the light or sound wave could possible to considered as a wave.

Explanation of Solution

For a low frequency sound wave it would have longer wavelength. In the case of objects those are larger than the wavelength as that of the ray, interact with wave, then the wave could possible to consider as a ray. But in this case sound wave has longer wavelength and hence it cannot be considered as a wave.

In the second case the high-frequency sound and light would have shorter wavelength would interact with objects which has dimension far greater than the wavelength of the wave could considered as ray.

Conclusion:

Therefore, If the light wave or sound wave interacts with objects which is much larger than the wavelength of the light or sound wave could possible to considered as a wave.

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Chapter 30 Solutions

Modified Mastering Physics With Pearson Etext -- Standalone Access Card -- For Essential University Physics (3rd Edition)

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