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Physics

The document provides an overview of sound waves, detailing their characteristics such as frequency, wavelength, amplitude, and speed, as well as the differences between longitudinal and transverse waves. It discusses the applications of sound waves in medical imaging, non-destructive testing, and communication, along with the effects of sound exposure on health and the environment. Additionally, it addresses noise pollution and its impact on living organisms and ecosystems.

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8 views

Physics

The document provides an overview of sound waves, detailing their characteristics such as frequency, wavelength, amplitude, and speed, as well as the differences between longitudinal and transverse waves. It discusses the applications of sound waves in medical imaging, non-destructive testing, and communication, along with the effects of sound exposure on health and the environment. Additionally, it addresses noise pollution and its impact on living organisms and ecosystems.

Uploaded by

SirupyEwe Gamer
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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PHYSICS RESEARCH PROJECT WAVES AND

SOUNDS

1.Introduction to sound waves


Sound waves are mechanical waves that
travel through a medium, such as air, water,
or solids, and are perceived by the human
ear as sound. They are caused by an
object's vibrations or oscillations, which
disrupt the particles in the surrounding
medium and cause them to oscillate back
and forth.

Sound waves are characterised by:


- Frequency (pitch): The number of
oscillations per second, measured in Hertz
(Hz).
- Wavelength: The distance between two
consecutive points on the wave that are in
phase with each other.
- Amplitude: The maximum displacement of
particles from their equilibrium position.
- Speed: The rate at which the wave travels
through the medium.

Longitudinal VS
Transverse Waves
Longitudinal Waves:
Compression waves that have oscillations
which are parallel to the direction of energy
transfer

Transverse Waves:
In transverse waves the
oscillations are
perpendicular to the
direction of energy transfer
*Medium and Speed:*

Sound waves travel through a medium, such


as:
- Air: Sound travels at approximately 343
meters per second (m/s) at room
temperature and atmospheric pressure.
- Water: Sound travels faster, at around
1,482 m/s.
- Solids: Sound travels even faster, with
speeds ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 m/s.

The speed of sound is affected by:


Temperature: Increases with temperature.
- Pressure: Increases with pressure.
- Density: Increases with density.

2.Properties Of Sound Waves


●Frequency:
- Definition: Number of oscillations per
second (measured in Hz)
- Perception: Determines pitch (higher
frequency = higher pitch)
- Example: Soprano singer (high
frequency) vs. Bass singer (low
frequency)
●Wavelength:
- Definition: Distance between two
consecutive points on the wave
- Perception: Affects pitch and sound
quality
- Example: Guitar strings (short
wavelength = high pitch, long
wavelength = low pitch)
●Amplitude:
- Definition: Maximum displacement of
particles from equilibrium
- Perception: Determines loudness
(higher amplitude = louder sound)
- Example: Whisper (low amplitude)
vs. Shout (high amplitude)

●Speed:
- Definition: Rate of wave propagation
(approximately 343 m/s in air)
- Perception: Affects sound delay and
echo
- Example: Sound of thunder (delayed
due to distance)
●Pitch
- Definition: Perceived highness or
lowness of sound
- Perception: Affected by frequency
and wavelength
- Example: Piano keys (different
pitches)
●Loudness
- Definition: Perceived intensity of
sound
- Perception: Affected by amplitude
- Example: Volume control on music
player (adjusts loudness)

3.Applications of sound waves

Medical
Imaging (Ultrasound):
-High frequency sound waves
are used to create images of
internal organs and tissues.
-Underlying principle: Reflection and
scattering of sound waves by different
tissues.
-Benefits: Non-invasive, real-time imaging,
and safe for patients.
-Limitations: Limited depth penetration and
resolution.

Non-Destructive Testing:
-Sound waves are used to
inspect materials and detect
defects.
-Underlying principle: Reflection
and scattering of sound waves
by defects.
-Benefits: Fast, accurate, and cost-effective.
-Limitations: Requires skilled operators and
specialised equipment.

Communication (Sonar and


Subwoofers):
-Sound waves are used for
underwater communication
(sonar) and low-frequency
sound reproduction
(subwoofers).
-Underlying principle: Propagation of sound
waves through water and air.
-Benefits: Effective for underwater
communication and enhanced sound
experience.
Limitations: Limited range and resolution for
sonar, and potential hearing damage from
subwoofers.

4.Effects of Sound Waves

Exposure to different sound levels can


impact:
-Hearing: Permanent damage and hearing
loss above 85 dB.
-Health: Stress, anxiety, and cardiovascular
effects from prolonged exposure to loud
sounds.

Noise Pollution:

- Definition: Unwanted or excessive sound


that disrupts the environment.
Effects:
-Living organisms: Stress, behavioural
changes, and physiological effects.
- Ecosystems: Disruption of
communication, behaviour, and habitats.

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