The Physics Classroom: Sound Waves and Music: The Speed of Sound

In this illustrated physics tutorial, students learn about sound wave behaviors and apply them to the reflection, diffraction, and refraction of sound waves.

This interactive physics tutorial allows students to investigate the nature, properties and behaviors of sound waves and apply basic wave principles towards an understanding of music.

Students see illustrated diagrams and animations to help them understand the pressure characteristics of a sound wave.

Students explore and discover how sound is created through longitudinal waves.

Students explore intensity of sound waves and the decibel scale in this interactive physics tutorial.

Use this interactive physics tutorial to introduce students to the concepts of pitch and frequency in sound waves.

Students study animations and diagrams to learn about the reflection behavior of sound waves.

With videos, illustrated diagrams, and informational text, students learn about sound waves as forced vibrations.

Through illustrated diagrams and interactive practice examples, students explore the physics of sound in open-end air column musical instruments.

Through illustrated diagrams and interactive practice examples, students explore the physics of sound in closed-end air column musical instruments.