ENERGY AND MOMENTUM: The Joule

The International System of Units ( SI ) uses seven base units to describe seven fundamental quantities that can be measured by scientists: Symbol Name  Base quantity second ( s )     time meter ( m )        length kilogram ( kg )  mass ampere ( A ) electric current kelvin (Continue reading “ENERGY AND MOMENTUM: The Joule”

SOUND: The Decibel Scale

One unit of ( X ) is equal to ten times one-tenth of ( X ). We are at liberty to allow ( X ) to be a quantity of anything we wish. For example, let’s allow ( X ) to be a dollar bill: 1 dollar = ( 10 )( 1 tenth dollars )Continue reading “SOUND: The Decibel Scale”

SOUND: The Doppler Effect

Sound is a quantification of the rate at which pressure waves pass through a “ springy “ gas medium such as air. A complete wave cycle is inclusive of regions of high and low pressure created by a vibrating source of sound. If we consider a circumstance in which a stationary source of sound isContinue reading “SOUND: The Doppler Effect”

SOUND: Beat Phenomena in Acoustics

Two major considerations will help us develop a clear understanding of an acoustic phenomena called ” sound beats “. First, consider that a longitudinal sound wave is a pressure wave moving through a ” springy ” medium. The Bulk Modulus and temperature of the medium influence the velocity of sound waves. Of interest here, however,Continue reading “SOUND: Beat Phenomena in Acoustics”

SOUND: Open-Pipe Systems

A standing pressure wave can be established by sound waves within a pipe with both ends open as well as pipes with one closed end. When a single-standing pressure wave exists within a pipe, the frequency ( f ) of the sound emitted is regarded as being the first or ” fundamental ” sound frequencyContinue reading “SOUND: Open-Pipe Systems”