Physical acoustics homework problems written by students: Undisciplined, irreverent, and original

Abstract

“Study hard what interests you the most in the most undisciplined, irreverent and original manner possible” [Perfectly Reasonable Deviations from the Beaten Track, Richard P. Feynman, Basic Books, 2005]. Writing original homework problems is a powerful way students of physical acoustics can practice Feynman’s advice. Three problems that involve a broad range of concepts covered in introductory graduate-level physical acoustics courses illustrate how the student-author unleashed his creativity in an undisciplined manner, injected his problems with an irreverent sense of humor, and derived a great sense of originality and ownership over physical acoustics. The problems synthesize David T. Blackstock’s problems 1D-2, 1E-3, 1G-1, 1G-3, 7-6, 10-10, and 10-11 [Fundamentals of Physical Acoustics, David T. Blackstock, Wiley, 2000], addressing concepts including acoustic intensity, impedance, horns, enclosures, and radiation. [CAG was supported by the ARL:UT Chester M. McKinney Graduate Fellowship in Acoustics.]