Measuring the Adiabatic Index of Gases Using an Ultrasonic Sensor
Location
Room 232, Schewel Hall
Access Type
Campus Access Only
Presentation Type
Oral presentation
Entry Number
84
Start Date
4-16-2026 3:00 PM
End Date
4-16-2026 3:15 PM
School
School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Department
Chemistry
Keywords
Physical Chemistry, Adiabatic Index
Abstract
In previous experiments, physical chemistry students have measured the frequency of sound waves in a controlled cell in order to illustrate the connection between the frequency of sound waves and the adiabatic index of a gas. However in our experiment, we will be demonstrating the ability to use the speed of sound in order to gain the adiabatic index of different gasses. We will utilize an ultrasonic sensor and an arduino uno in order to measure the time it takes for an ultrasonic wave to reach the other end of our cell and return. Using this data, we are able to detect changes in the speed of sound based on differences in gasses. We have developed a cost efficient apparatus and an easy-to-use procedure in order to make sure that the most amount of physical chemistry students will receive hands on learning experience in this lab.
Primary Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Matthew Brynteson
Primary Faculty Mentor(s) Department
Chemistry
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Measuring the Adiabatic Index of Gases Using an Ultrasonic Sensor
Room 232, Schewel Hall
In previous experiments, physical chemistry students have measured the frequency of sound waves in a controlled cell in order to illustrate the connection between the frequency of sound waves and the adiabatic index of a gas. However in our experiment, we will be demonstrating the ability to use the speed of sound in order to gain the adiabatic index of different gasses. We will utilize an ultrasonic sensor and an arduino uno in order to measure the time it takes for an ultrasonic wave to reach the other end of our cell and return. Using this data, we are able to detect changes in the speed of sound based on differences in gasses. We have developed a cost efficient apparatus and an easy-to-use procedure in order to make sure that the most amount of physical chemistry students will receive hands on learning experience in this lab.