Sound Physics: Reflection, Waves, and Frequency

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.