Sonic device deployed in London during Olympics

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-18042528
This article applies perfectly to the current topic of study in physics 20 AP, waves. According to the Ministry of Defense in London, a sonic device (LRAD) is to be deployed during the Olympic games to ensure the safety of all participants. The acronym stands for Long Range Acoustic Device and it was designed to transmit verbal warnings (to disperse a crowd for instance) and under some circumstances, pain-inducing tones. However the company persists to deny it is a weapon. The sound wave produced is highly directional and in some versions of the device, is capable of achieving levels of 150 decibels at one meter. In Iraq, the US military deployed LRAD for crowd control purposes. In addition, the LRAD has been sold to the US Navy, Air force, and several police forces across the globe. During the games, the device will be used to achieve maritime stop on the Thames. The LRAD has been described as far superior to other varieties of sound transmitters, in terms of distance and sound quality. Needless to say, this device is a very intriguing concept - yet it is difficult not to perceive it as a weapon. I am certainly interested in hearing more about the LRAD and its uses once the games are underway.

I agree with Belinda, the concept of the LRAD device is very interesting. If the use of sound to control crowds during the Olympics is effective, I don't see a problem with it. In my opinion, it is better to have people disperse due to an annoying noise than excessive force used by police and other security personnel as well as the weapons they use to fulfill their duties. Should the LRAD actually work, I could see this type of technology being used for all sorts of events in which large crowds may cause problems, for example after concerts and sporting events, and also by police forces to control any riots or other situations which could get out of hand.

This is a genius idea, especially since sports fans are becoming more and more involved and supportive of their teams, cause tons of riots to break out like last year when Vancouver fans went nuts. As long as this device is used safely and not used to harm the fans, it is a brilliant idea and could be used everywhere and anywhere.