Chapter 15, Problem 25A

To determine

The physical properties of sound wave.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Sound is a form of energy. It is a type of mechanical wave which requires medium for its propagation.

Sounds waves are produced when the energy is transferred through a medium. It is longitudinal wave. In longitudinal wave, the displacement of medium is along the direction of propagation of wave.

The five physical characteristics of sound wave are as:

1. Wavelength ( $\lambda$): It is the minimum distance after which a sound wave repeats itself. In other words, it is the complete length of one wave.

Mathematically it is defined as it is the distance between two successive compression or rarefaction.

The S.I. unit of wavelength is meter.

2. Amplitude( $A$): It is the maximum displacement of the particle from their original position.The S.I unit of amplitude is meter. The amplitude of sound wave is directly proportional to the power of wave.
3. Time period ( $T$): It is the time required by the wave to complete on cycle.

The S.I unit of time period is second.

4. Frequency ( $f$ ): Frequency is defined as the total number of complete waves produced in one second. The SI unit of frequency is $\text{hertz}$(Hz).
5. Velocity of wave ( $v$): It is the distance travelled by wave in one second.

The SI unit of velocity of sound wave is meter per second (m/s).