The World Communicates
Go to lesson index
  The story of communications and optics from the time of the ancients, now and into the future.
  Home Teacher Guide Student Guide History Photonics About this site  
Lesson 5 - Measuring sound
Previous lesson
Next lesson
Objective
In this lesson students carry out further investigations into the nature of sound using an oscilloscope. The generalised wave model is introduced and the terms defined. Using a source (or sources) which can deliver sound at variable amplitude and frequency students will be able to see how volume is related to amplitude and how pitch relates to frequency.
Prescribed Focus Area Skills Development Content

P2 A student applies the processes that are used to test and validate models, theories and laws of science with particular emphasis on first-hand investigations in physics

P12.1 Students perform first-hand investigations
P12.2 … gather first-hand information
P13 … identify appropriate terminology … to communicate information and understanding in physics

D1.4 Students learn to define and apply the following terms to the wave model: 'medium', 'displacement', 'amplitude', 'period', 'compression', 'rarefaction', 'crest', 'trough', 'transverse waves', 'longitudinal waves', 'frequency', wavelength', 'velocity
D2.3 … explain qualitatively that pitch is related to frequency and volume to amplitude of sound waves

Activity Resources Homework

A1.3 First-hand investigation to gather information about the frequency and amplitude of waves using an oscilloscope or electronic data-logging equipment.

  • A variety of sound sources including tuning forks, bells, guitar etc.
  • Microphone & amplifier
  • Oscilloscope
Nil
Management issues Nominal duration
Students will be using electrical equipment and will require some briefing as to how it should be used. The lesson could be presented as a double period or as a theory lesson, on the wave model, followed by a practical session.
2 hours

Please help us improve this site by filling in the site feedback form

CUDOS Home Page
CUDOS Home Page
| Site Map | Copyright | Contact | ©2005 The University of Sydney
Link to University of Sydney Link to ANU Link to Macquarie University Link to UTS Link to Swinburne