Sound Physics: Reflection, Waves, and Frequency

Study Notes

Sound Physics

Reflection and Echo

Definition: When a sound wave hits a surface, it bounces back, creating an echo.
Types of Reflection:
- Specular Reflection: Like a mirror reflection, where the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.
- Diffuse Reflection: Where the sound wave is scattered in different directions.
Echoes:
- Direct Echo: The original sound wave reflected back to the listener.
- Indirect Echo: A secondary echo that bounces off multiple surfaces before returning to the listener.

Sound Waves

Definition: A mechanical wave that propagates through a medium, transferring energy from one point to another.
Characteristics:
- Amplitude: The maximum displacement of the wave from its equilibrium position.
- Wavelength: The distance between two consecutive identical points on the wave.
- Frequency: The number of oscillations per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
- Speed: The distance traveled by the wave per unit time, dependent on the medium.
Types of Sound Waves:
- Longitudinal Waves: Compression and rarefaction of particles in the direction of propagation.
- Transverse Waves: Particle motion perpendicular to the direction of propagation.

Frequency and Pitch

Frequency: The number of oscillations per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
Pitch: The perceived highness or lowness of a sound, dependent on frequency.
Relationship:
- Higher Frequency: Higher pitch.
- Lower Frequency: Lower pitch.
Human Hearing Range: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz.

Description

Test your understanding of sound physics concepts, including reflection, sound waves, and frequency. Learn about specular and diffuse reflection, sound wave characteristics, and the relationship between frequency and pitch.