Sound Waves: Properties, Loudness, and Pitch

What is the definition of a sound wave?

• A longitudinal wave caused by the vibration of an object and travels through a medium.

• A wave caused by the movement of air particles

Answer explanation

A sound wave is a longitudinal wave caused by the vibration of an object and travels through a medium.

What are the three properties of sound waves?

• density, volume, and pressure

• frequency, amplitude, and wavelength

Answer explanation

The three properties of sound waves are frequency, amplitude, and wavelength. These properties determine the pitch, loudness, and quality of the sound.

How is loudness of a sound related to the amplitude of a sound wave?

• Constant

• Directly proportional

Answer explanation

The loudness of a sound is directly proportional to the amplitude of a sound wave. As the amplitude increases, the sound becomes louder.

Explain the concept of pitch in relation to sound waves.

• Pitch is the volume of a sound wave.

• Pitch is the perceived frequency of a sound wave.

Answer explanation

Pitch is the perceived frequency of a sound wave.

What unit is used to measure the loudness of a sound?

• kilogram

• decibel (dB)

Answer explanation

The loudness of a sound is measured in decibels (dB).

How does the frequency of a car engine's revving affect the pitch of the sound?

• When a car engine revs at a higher frequency, the pitch of the sound is higher, while at a lower frequency, the pitch is lower.

• The frequency of a car engine's revving does not affect the pitch of the sound.

Answer explanation

When a car engine revs at a higher frequency, the pitch of the sound is higher, while at a lower frequency, the pitch is lower.

What is the range of frequencies that the average human ear can hear?

• 30 Hz to 25,000 Hz

• 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz

Answer explanation

The average human ear can hear frequencies ranging from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. This range covers the audible spectrum of sound.

Explain the difference between high-pitched and low-pitched sounds in terms of frequency.

• High-pitched sounds have a higher frequency, while low-pitched sounds have a lower frequency.

• High-pitched sounds have a lower frequency, while low-pitched sounds have a higher frequency.

Answer explanation

High-pitched sounds have a higher frequency, while low-pitched sounds have a lower frequency.

How does the density and elasticity of the medium affect the speed of a sound wave?

• The speed of the medium

• The direction of the medium

Answer explanation

The speed of a sound wave is affected by the density and elasticity of the medium. In particular, the correct choice is the direction of the medium.

What is the relationship between the wavelength of a sound wave and its frequency?

• In a musical instrument, the longer the wavelength, the lower the frequency

• In a concert hall, the shorter the wavelength, the higher the frequency

Answer explanation

In a musical instrument, longer wavelength corresponds to lower frequency.