Question: Assuming a sudden loud alarm sounds from an area represented by several tall smokestacks, which acoustic effect is most likely for a person standing where the photo was taken?
A. In open terrain, the sound decays uniformly according to the standard inverse-square law.
B. Due to reflection from the sand, the sound is amplified and sounds unusually clear.
C. The sound refracts upward, making it weaker than expected at this location, possibly even inaudible.
D. Airborne sand particles significantly absorb acoustic energy, causing high frequencies to nearly vanish.
Clues:
1. The image shows a landscape of rolling sand dunes, characteristic of a desert.
2. The sky is clear and bright blue, indicating it is daytime and sunny.
3. A city skyline with tall structures, including smokestacks, is visible in the far distance.
4. The vast expanse of sand between the viewpoint and the distant city indicates a long distance for sound to travel.
Answer: C
Category: Physics