Generation of sound waves

Principle

Sounds are generated by oscillations. The sound volume is influenced by their relative amplitude, while the sound pitch depends on their frequency. This relationship is examined based on three examples: oscillating ruler, tuning fork, string of a monochord.

Benefits

• Experiment is part of an experiment set with a total of 22 experiments about generation, propagation and perception of sound, oscillations and waves
• Particularly appropriate as an experiment for first contact with physics in general
• With graphic student worksheets
• With detailed instructor information
• Optimized for tight schedules, i.e. minimum preparation time required

Tasks

Try to generate sounds with a ruler, tuning fork, or a taut string. Examine the factors that the pitch and sound volume depend on.

Learning objectives

• Sound generation
• Oscillations
• Sound volume
• Sound pitch