The Nature of Sound Flashcards
How does sound occur?
vibration sets molecules into motion
Which medium is most elastic between solids, liquids, and gases? why?
solids b/c when molecules are packed together you have more elasticity
What is the source of sound waves?
Vibration is the source of all sound waves
Define vibration
the motion of mass around a rest point. vibration displaces molecules. after being displaced they move back to original position displacing it. eg. rubber band
Define compression and rarefaction
compression - maximum dispalcement; rarefaction - opposite response
Define cycle
A cycle occurs when the mass moves from rest to a point of maximum amplitude and rarefaction
Define frequency
The number of completed cycles that occur in one second is referred to as frequency.
Explain the difference between frequency and pitch
Pitch is the perception of frequency but not measured in same way. ex.) 2 women speak, who has the higher pitch? If it is measured then it is frequency. Pitch is only opinion/perception; psychologic
What is damping?
A decrease in amplitude due to friction
A pure tone or a sine wave contain how many frequencies?
1 frequency
Define resonant or natural frequency
Everything, everybody has a frequency at which it vibrates most easily. This is called resonant or natural frequency.
How do pure tones and complex tones differ?
Pure tone - 1 frequency; complex tone - many frequencies
Define harmonic
Integral multiple of the fundamental. Ex.) fundamental = 500 Hz. Harmonic = 1000,1500,2000,2500
Define fundamental
Base or lowest tone
Define octave
doubling of frequency. Ex.) fundamental = 500. Octave = 500,1000,2000,4000,8000. etc.
