Building Utilities 3 - Acoustics and Lighting Systems Fundamentals Architectural Definition Quiz

Sound Fundamentals

• Sound is a physical wave, or mechanical vibration, or a series of pressure variations in an elastic medium.
• Architects define sound as an audible signal.
• Sound can be viewed as a series of pressure variations, taking the form of periodic compressions and refractions in air.

Velocity of Sound

• The velocity of sound is independent of frequency, intensity, and atmospheric pressure changes.
• The velocity of sound is dependent on temperature.
• The terms "velocity of sound" and "speed of sound" are often used interchangeably.

Frequency and Pitch

• Frequency is the number of times the cycle of compression and rarefaction of air makes in a given unit of time (1 second).
• In sound, frequency is often referred to as pitch.
• The range of a healthy young person's hearing is 20 to 20,000 Hz.

Human Voice and Speech

• The human speaking voice has a range of approximately 100 to 600 Hz.
• Harmonics of the human voice can reach up to approximately 7500 Hz.
• The critical range of speech communication is 300 to 4000 Hz.

Wavelength and Propagation

• Wavelength is the distance between similar points on successive waves or the distance sound travels in one cycle of vibration.
• Sounds with wavelengths ranging from 1.25 cm to 15.25 m can be heard by humans.
• Types of waves include longitudinal, transverse, Rayleigh, Lamb, Love, and Stoneley waves.

Acoustics and Architectural Design

• Acoustics is the technology of designing spaces, structures, and mechanical systems to meet hearing needs.
• Architectural acoustics involves the study of sound in homes and other buildings, and the design of structures for optimal acoustic performance.
• All acoustics situations have three common elements – source, transmission path, and receiver.

Test your knowledge on the basic terms related to acoustics in architecture, including the design of spaces for optimal acoustic performance and control of sound transmission. Explore the key concepts of architectural acoustics and its importance in building utilities.