What is Sound?
Sound in general, is a vibration that propagates as transverse wave through a transmission medium such as solid, liquid, or gas. When an object vibrates, it causes the surrounding molecules to vibrate as well, making a series of vibrations and consequently, when it reaches our eardrums, it is the sound that we perceive.
Some Important Properties of Sound
- Loudness – The loudness of a sound is related to the Amplitude of the transverse wave. Loudness is also proportional to the energy of vibration. Loudness is the auditory sensation that can be ordered on a scale of quietness to loudness.
- Pitch – The pitch of a sound is related to the Frequency of the transverse wave. Frequency is the number of compressions and rarefactions of a transverse wave as it propagates through a medium. The range of audible frequency for humans is between 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Pitch is the auditory sensation of how lower or higher a sound is when it is associated to musical melodies.
- Timbre – The timbre of sound is somehow related to the Frequency of the transverse wave. However, timbre is the property used to differentiate sounds with the same frequency. Timbre is what gives us different unique voices. Timbre is the auditory sensation determined by the quality of sound.
Sound in Relation to Acoustics
Sound is the principle, structure, and reason supporting the establishment of Acoustics. Acoustics in its simplest definition is the science discipline concerned in the production, control, transmission, reception, and effects of sound. Moreover, the person who works in the field of acoustics is called an Acoustician and the expert who works in the application of acoustic technology is called an Acoustic Engineer.
The rise of Noise Pollution in our modern world due to anthropological activities of mankind paved way to the intensive need of noise suppression and control. Noise affects human physical and mental behavior, and having Acoustics is a great tool in order for us to address noise pollution with innovative approach and solutions.