Module 12: Waves and Sound

Module 12: Waves and Sound

Introduction

Vibrations and waves are all around us. A vibration is just a wiggle in time. A wiggle in both space and time is wave. Sound is an important example of a wave. However, unlike water waves, we cannot see the waving of the sound wave - or can we? In this module we will explore Waves and Sound through 5 lessons. 

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this module, students will be able to: 

  • Define harmonic motion.
  • Solve problems related to simple harmonic motion.
  • Display knowledge Hooke's Law and know how to identify the values of its variables
  • Explain how waves and vibrations are inter-related.
  • Explain the energy associated with a spring, especially the conservation of energy within this system.
  • Explain the principle of adding waves.
  • Explain the creation of of standing waves.
  • Define interference.
  • Define superposition in relation to waves.
  • Interpret the results of superposing waves.
  • Define sound.
  • Explain how sound travels in waves.
  • Explain the meaning of traveling in a longitudinal wave.
  • Explain the Doppler Effect.
  • Provide an example of the Doppler Effect.

To Do List

1. Watch the Video Lectures (links below)
2. Complete the Practice Problems (links below)
3. Take the Module 12 Quiz
4. Complete the Exam Practice Problems for Module 12

Lessons

Lesson 12.1 Springs

Hooke's Law, the basic law concerning the vibrations of a spring, is introduced. The mathematics of simple harmonic motion and how waves and vibrations are inter-related are explored.

Lesson 12.2 Energy Stored in Springs

Springs can have energy which is either potential or kinetic - or both. The spring is shown to be a fine example of energy conservation.

Lesson 12.3 Wave Mathematics and Superposition

The proof that something travels in a wave is interference. Various demonstrations are made to show how superposing waves can produce positive and negative interference, and in some cases standing waves.

Lesson 12.4 Sound Waves and Harmonics

Sound is described as a longitudinal wave, and various aspects of superposition of the longitudinal waves are explained.

Lesson 12.5 The Doppler Effect

This lesson concentrates on the Doppler effect, that changes the pitch that sound are perceived to have if they are moving.

Quiz

Once you have watched the lectures and completed the practice problems, you should demonstrate your understanding by taking the Module 12 Quiz. Be sure to submit the quiz before its deadline.

Coming Up

In the next Module we will learn about Electrostatics.