Question 1: Sound is a type of wave that requires a medium to travel through. Its properties determine how we perceive sound, including pitch, loudness, and quality.

Answer: Sound properties include pitch, loudness, and timbre, which are influenced by frequency, amplitude, and waveform shape.

Question 1: Define 'frequency' in relation to sound waves.

Answer: Frequency is the number of wave cycles that pass a point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Question 2: What property of a sound wave determines its pitch?

Answer: The pitch of a sound is determined by the frequency of the wave.

Question 1: Explain how the amplitude of a sound wave affects its loudness.

Answer: A larger amplitude results in a louder sound because it represents greater energy in the wave.

Question 2: Describe how the shape of a waveform influences the quality or timbre of a sound.

Answer: The waveform shape determines the harmonic content, affecting the character or colour of the sound.

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to investigate how frequency affects the pitch of a sound.

Answer: Use a tuning fork of known frequency and a set of different sound sources or electronic tone generators. Record the perceived pitch at each frequency, maintaining constant amplitude to isolate the effect of frequency.

Question 2: Identify two variables that should be kept constant during an experiment measuring the effect of amplitude on loudness and explain why.

Answer: Variables such as frequency and duration should be kept constant to ensure that only amplitude affects loudness, preventing other factors from influencing the results.

Question 1: A sound wave has a frequency of 440 Hz and an amplitude of 0.5 Pa. Explain what these values tell you about the sound's pitch and loudness.

Answer: A frequency of 440 Hz indicates a pitch that is standard A above middle C, and an amplitude of 0.5 Pa suggests a moderate loudness.

Question 2: A musical instrument produces a sound with a complex waveform. Describe how this affects the timbre of the sound.

Answer: A complex waveform contains multiple frequencies, which gives the sound its unique quality or colour, known as timbre.

Question 1: Explain how understanding sound properties is important in designing concert halls.

Answer: Designers must consider sound reflection, absorption, and diffusion to optimise acoustics, ensuring clear and balanced sound for all audience members.

Question 2: Describe a technology that utilises the properties of sound waves for communication or industry.

Answer: Ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal body structures, relying on properties like frequency and reflection.

Question 1: Write a brief explanation of how the properties of sound waves affect our ability to hear different sounds in everyday life.

Answer: The frequency determines pitch, allowing us to distinguish high and low sounds. Amplitude affects loudness, making sounds more or less audible. The shape of the waveform influences the timbre, helping us identify different sources. These properties enable us to interpret our auditory environment effectively.