Sound waves

Front

What is a sound wave?

Back

A sound wave is a type of mechanical wave that travels through a medium (like air, water, or solids) by vibrating particles.

Front

What is frequency in relation to sound waves?

Back

Frequency is the number of waves that pass a point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz). Higher frequency means a higher pitch.

Front

What is amplitude in sound waves?

Back

Amplitude is the height of the wave from its rest position, which determines the loudness of the sound. Higher amplitude means a louder sound.

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive points in phase on a wave, such as from crest to crest or trough to trough.

Front

What is the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

Back

In longitudinal waves, particles move parallel to the direction of the wave (like sound waves). In transverse waves, particles move perpendicular to the direction of the wave (like light waves).

Front

What is a crest in a wave?

Back

A crest is the highest point of a wave.

Front

What is a trough in a wave?

Back

A trough is the lowest point of a wave.

Front

How does the speed of sound vary in different mediums?

Back

Sound travels fastest in solids, slower in liquids, and slowest in gases due to the density and elasticity of the medium.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and energy in sound waves?

Back

Higher frequency waves carry more energy than lower frequency waves.

Front

What is the Doppler effect?

Back

The Doppler effect is the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer moving relative to the wave source.