Wave and Sound Vocab

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Wave

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A disturbance or oscillation that transfers energy through matter or space, often in the form of vibrations or oscillations. Examples include waves in water, sound waves, and light waves.

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Amplitude

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The maximum displacement or distance moved by a point on a wave from its rest position. In sound waves, amplitude is related to the volume or loudness of the sound.

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Frequency

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The number of complete oscillations or cycles that occur in a given time period, typically measured in Hertz (Hz). It determines the pitch of a sound.

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Wavelength

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The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave. It is inversely proportional to frequency: the higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength.

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Speed of Sound

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The rate at which sound waves travel through a medium, such as air, water, or steel. The speed of sound depends on the medium and temperature. It is approximately 343 m/s at room temperature in air.

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Pitch

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The perceived frequency of a sound, determining whether it sounds high or low. Higher frequencies correspond to higher pitches, and lower frequencies correspond to lower pitches.

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Reflection

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The bouncing back of a wave when it encounters a boundary or obstacle. For sound, this can result in echoes.

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Refraction

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The bending of a wave as it passes from one medium into another, causing a change in its speed and direction. This can affect how sound waves travel through different materials.

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Resonance

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A phenomenon that occurs when a vibrating object or system absorbs energy at its natural frequency, causing it to vibrate with greater amplitude. This is why certain objects may 'sing' or resonate when sound waves of a specific frequency are applied.

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Doppler Effect

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The change in frequency or pitch of a sound wave as the source of the sound moves relative to the observer. For example, an approaching ambulance sounds higher-pitched, while a receding one sounds lower-pitched.