The Physics Classroom

» The Physics Classroom » Physics Tutorial » Sound Waves and Music

Sound Waves and Music - Chapter Outline

Lesson 1: The Nature of a Sound Wave

  1. Sound is a Mechanical Wave
  2. Sound is a Longitudinal Wave
  3. Sound is a Pressure Wave

Lesson 2: Sound Properties and Their Perception

  1. Pitch and Frequency
  2. Intensity and the Decibel Scale
  3. The Speed of Sound
  4. The Human Ear

Lesson 3: Behavior of Sound Waves

  1. Interference and Beats
  2. The Doppler Effect and Shock Waves
  3. Boundary Behavior
  4. Reflection, Refraction, and Diffraction

Lesson 4: Resonance and Standing Waves

  1. Natural Frequency
  2. Forced Vibration
  3. Standing Wave Patterns
  4. Fundamental Frequency and Harmonics

Lesson 5: Musical Instruments

  1. Resonance
  2. Guitar Strings
  3. Open-End Air Columns
  4. Closed-End Air Columns