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Sep 12, 2022 · On the atomic scale, sound is a disturbance of atoms that is far more ordered than their thermal motions. In many instances, sound is a periodic wave, and the atoms undergo simple harmonic motion. Thus, sound waves can induce oscillations and resonance effects (Figure 17.2.2 17.2. 2 ).
A sound wave is the pattern of disturbance caused by the energy travelling away from the source of the sound. Sound waves are longitudinal waves. This means that the propagation of vibration of particles is parallel to the energy wave propagation direction. When the atoms are set in vibration they move back and forth.
Sound, a mechanical disturbance from a state of equilibrium that propagates through an elastic material medium. A purely subjective, but unduly restrictive, definition of sound is also possible, as that which is perceived by the ear. Learn more about the properties and types of sound in this article.
On the atomic scale, sound is a disturbance of atoms that is far more ordered than their thermal motions. In many instances, sound is a periodic wave, and the atoms undergo simple harmonic motion. Thus, sound waves can induce oscillations and resonance effects (Figure 17.2).
This Physics Tutorial discusses the nature of sound, its characteristic behaviors, and its association with the operation of musical instruments. Attention is given to both the purely conceptual aspect of sound waves and to the mathematical treatment of the same topic.
The Simple Wave Simulator provides the learner an environment to explore the distinction between longitudinal and transverse waves, the wavelength-frequency-period relationship, sound waves as pressure waves, and much more.
The frequency of a sound is the number of waves that pass a point per unit time. Figure 14.7 A sound wave emanates from a source vibrating at a frequency f, propagates at v, and has a wavelength λ λ . One of the more important properties of sound is that its speed is nearly independent of frequency.
