Wave properties and sound from "summary" of Physics 11 by British Columbia. Schools Department. Curriculum Development Branch
This topic deals with the properties of wave motions and how they influence sound. It explains the relationship between vibration and frequency to create different audible sounds. It also examines how multiple waves combine to create new sounds.- Wave properties such as frequency and amplitude can change the sounds we hear. The higher the frequency, the higher the pitch of the sound will be and the larger the amplitude the louder the sound will be.
- Waves are an interesting way that energy can travel. They transfer energy from one point to another without the need for any physical material to do so, something we can see in sound waves.
- Sound is an example of a type of wave known as a longitudinal wave. It passes through matter much like light does, but it also carries energy. This means they can make the matter vibrate and generate sound.
- Waves interact with each other as they pass along different objects and surfaces. When two waves collide, their energies mix together which can cause interference or amplification depending on how they match up.
- It's also possible for waves to bend around objects and travel in other directions. This phenomenon is called refraction, where the direction of the wave changes when passing through different materials.
- The study of waves and the effect they have on sound is essential to understanding acoustics. Theories about wave behavior form the basis for building sound systems and understanding the physics of music.
- Waves also have the ability to reflect off of solid surfaces. When this happens, some of the wave’s energy bounces back in the opposite direction. Mirrors work because of these properties and use them to create an image.
