2006-11-02 11:33:47 · 6 answers · asked by Joey G 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
The sound waves generated in helium gas have less momentum due to the lighter molecular weight of helium. Then when they hit the air going out to the ear, they can move those heavier nitrogen and oxygen molecules around as fast. This results in a decrease in th distance between compression waves, which then sounds like a higher pitch.
2006-11-02 12:32:29 · answer #1 · answered by WildOtter 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The pitch changes with the change in density of the gas.
Helium is less dense. Sound travels faster through it and causes the pitch to change as a result.
2006-11-02 11:36:36 · answer #2 · answered by Alan Turing 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
like some of them said helium is lighter then air so the change in density messes with your vocal cords and changes your pitch. :)
2006-11-02 11:49:07 · answer #3 · answered by dragonus456 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It has to do with helium being so much lighter than air. Hydrogen has the same effect, at least in a flute. I don't recommend doing it, asphyxiation is not pleasant.
2006-11-02 11:37:31 · answer #4 · answered by mad_mav70 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
helium causes your vocal cords to contract
2006-11-02 11:38:58 · answer #5 · answered by James M 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not completely sure but I think it has something to do with the density of the gas coming out of your lungs ...
2006-11-02 11:37:46 · answer #6 · answered by T'Vral 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋