The velocity of longitudinal waves in cylindrical bars may be expressed as the velocity at infinite wave-length times a function of two variables: Poisson's ratio, and the ratio of the diameter of the bar to the wave-length. This function is computed over the domain of the arguments which is of physical interest. Asymptotic values for the velocities at very short wave-lengths are deduced, and the variation of the displacement as a function of the radius is discussed. It is found that a similar analysis can be applied to torsional and flexural waves.

• Received 9 January 1941

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRev.59.588