CLASS 6 · LEARNING KNOWLEDGE
Sound propagation and pitch – basic principles
How it works
Sound is a mechanical wave that propagates through a medium (e.g. air, water, solid substances). The propagation speed depends on the medium. Sound cannot be transmitted in a vacuum. The pitch of a sound is determined by its frequency: high frequency = high pitch, low frequency = low pitch. Loudness depends on the amplitude of the vibration. Sound waves can be reflected (echo), refracted or absorbed.
Note
Sound requires a medium to propagate; the pitch depends on the frequency, the loudness on the amplitude.
Sound requires a medium to propagate; the pitch depends on the frequency, the loudness on the amplitude.
An example
Why can’t you hear any sounds in outer space, even if explosions take place there?
In outer space there is no medium such as air or water through which sound waves could propagate. Therefore, you cannot hear any sounds there.
Try it yourself now
50 Exercises
To the learning unit →Own explanation and own practice exercises by AmyMath. Subject reference framework: Physics. The topic assignment may vary by federal state.