TLPB121 - PHYSICS 2 LEC

Midterm Homework 02

Direction:

A. Answer/Solve the following questions below. (include images if

necessary) B. Submit in PDF Format
C. Filename format;
SURNAME_FIRSTNAME_PHYSICS02_Miderm_HW02 QUESTIONS:
1. Wave Properties:

a. Explain the fundamental properties of sound waves, including frequency, amplitude, and wavelength.

- The fundamental properties of sound waves are defined by three key characteristics: frequency,
amplitude, and wavelength. Frequency refers to the number of oscillations or cycles of a wave
per unit of time and is measured in hertz (Hz). It determines the pitch of a sound, with higher
frequencies corresponding to higher pitches. Amplitude represents the maximum displacement
of particles in a medium from their equilibrium position during a wave's oscillation and is
related to the intensity or loudness of the sound; larger amplitudes produce louder sounds.
Wavelength is the distance between successive points of a wave in the direction of propagation,
and it is inversely proportional to frequency. In essence, as frequency increases, the wavelength
decreases. These three properties collectively define the unique characteristics of sound waves,
shaping the auditory experiences we perceive in terms of pitch, loudness, and the spatial
distribution of sound energy.

b. Discuss how the speed of sound changes in different mediums and its dependence on temperature.

- The speed of sound varies in different mediums due to differences in their physical properties.
In general, sound travels faster in denser materials because the particles are closer together,
facilitating the transmission of energy. As a result, sound typically moves faster in solids than in
liquids, and faster in liquids than in gases. Additionally, the speed of sound is highly dependent
on temperature within a given medium. In gases, an increase in temperature leads to higher
 average kinetic energy of the particles, causing them to move more rapidly and resulting in a
faster speed of sound. Conversely, in solids and liquids, temperature influences the elasticity of
the medium, affecting the speed of sound. Understanding these relationships is crucial in
various fields, from predicting seismic wave behavior in Earth's interior to engineering
applications like designing acoustic systems for different environments.

2. Sound Propagation:

a. Describe the principles of sound propagation and the factors that affect sound transmission.

- The principles of sound propagation involve the transmission of mechanical waves through a
medium, typically air, water, or solids. Sound waves travel as a series of compressions and
rarefactions, with particles in the medium oscillating back and forth. The speed of sound in a
given medium is determined by its density, elasticity, and temperature. As sound waves travel,
they experience factors that can affect their transmission, such as absorption, reflection, and
diffraction. Absorption occurs when sound energy is absorbed by surfaces or materials, leading to
a decrease in sound intensity. Reflection involves the bouncing back of sound waves off surfaces,
influencing the perception of sound in an environment. Diffraction refers to the bending of sound
waves around obstacles, allowing sound to spread into regions that may be shadowed from direct
line-of-sight. Understanding these factors is crucial in fields like acoustics, where engineers aim
to control sound transmission for optimal auditory experiences in various settings, from concert
halls to outdoor environments.

b. Research and present a real-world example of how sound propagation influences communication or
noise control in an industrial or urban setting.

- In industrial settings, effective communication and noise control are critical for maintaining a
safe and productive environment. An example of sound propagation influencing
communication and noise control is seen in large manufacturing plants or factories that utilize
intercom systems. These systems often rely on strategically placed speakers and microphones
to facilitate communication among workers in different areas. Understanding the principles of
sound propagation is essential for designing an intercom system that can overcome challenges
posed by machinery noise and distance. Engineers must consider factors such as the
 directionality of sound waves, potential obstacles, and the ambient noise level in the
environment. By strategically placing speakers and optimizing the system for sound
propagation characteristics, clear and intelligible communication can be maintained,
contributing to enhanced safety and operational efficiency in industrial settings where noise
levels are often high.

3. Sound Measurement and Decibels:

a. Define the decibel (dB) scale and its significance in acoustics.

- The decibel (dB) scale is a logarithmic unit of measurement used to express the intensity or
amplitude of a sound wave, providing a relative measure of sound levels. In acoustics, the decibel
scale is particularly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for a convenient
representation of a wide range of sound intensities that our ears can perceive, spanning from the
faintest detectable sound to the threshold of pain. Secondly, the logarithmic nature of the scale
reflects the human perception of sound, which is also logarithmic. Each increase of 10 dB
represents a tenfold increase in intensity, making the scale more perceptually relevant.
Additionally, the decibel scale is commonly used to compare sound levels and assess potential
hearing damage or environmental noise pollution. It plays a crucial role in setting standards for
permissible noise levels in various settings, from industrial workplaces to residential areas,
contributing to the regulation and control of sound in diverse environments.

b. Calculate the decibel level for a sound wave with an intensity of 1.0 x 10^-12 W/m², and compare it to
common environmental sounds.

- A sound wave having an intensity of 1.0 x 10-12 W/m2 has a decibel level of 0 dB. The threshold
is the lowest sound pressure at which human ears can barely hear sound. Anything weaker than
this is unintelligible because it is insufficiently powerful. It acts as a reference point to assist us
grasp the most inaudible noises that human hearing can detect.

4. Reverberation and Acoustic Design:

a. Explain the concept of reverberation in acoustics and its role in architectural design.
 - Reverberation in acoustics refers to the persistence of sound in an enclosed space after the sound
source has stopped emitting. It is characterized by a series of multiple reflections of sound waves
off surfaces within a room, creating a prolonged decay of sound. The duration and character of
reverberation significantly impact the acoustics of a space and play a crucial role in architectural
design, especially in spaces like concert halls, auditoriums, or recording studios. The right
amount of reverberation can enhance the richness and warmth of musical performances, while
excessive reverberation may lead to muddied or unclear sound. Architects often use acoustic
design principles, including the strategic placement of sound-absorbing materials like curtains,
panels, and diffusers, to control and tailor reverberation within a space. Achieving an optimal
balance of reverberation is essential to create acoustically pleasing environments that suit their
intended purpose, whether it be for musical performances, spoken word events, or recording
sessions.

b. Investigate a specific architectural structure or space (e.g., concert hall, recording studio) known for its
acoustic design and discuss the key acoustic principles applied.

Designed by architect Frank Gehry. Acoustic principles were a central focus in the design of the
concert hall to ensure optimal sound quality for musical performances. Key acoustic principles
applied in the Walt Disney Concert Hall include the strategic use of materials and shapes. The
interior features Douglas fir wood paneling and a series of undulating surfaces, creating a visually
 striking space that also serves to diffuse sound reflections. The vineyard-style seating
arrangement, with terraced balconies surrounding the stage, enhances audience proximity to the
performers and contributes to an immersive acoustic experience. The incorporation of adjustable
acoustic curtains and panels allows for fine-tuning the reverberation time and sound reflection
within the hall, accommodating different types of performances. Overall, the Walt Disney Concert
Hall stands as a testament to the successful integration of architectural and acoustic design
principles, providing a superb acoustic environment for a wide range of musical events.

5. Sound Technology and Applications:

a. Explore the technological advancements in acoustics, such as noise-canceling headphones or

ultrasound imaging.

- Technological advancements in acoustics have led to innovative solutions that

significantly enhance our auditory experiences and extend into diverse fields.
Noise-canceling headphones exemplify one such advancement, utilizing sophisticated
algorithms and microphones to analyze and counteract ambient sounds in real-time,
providing users with an immersive and quieter listening environment. In the medical
field, ultrasound imaging represents a groundbreaking application of acoustics.
Ultrasound machines use high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of
internal body structures, offering a non-invasive and versatile diagnostic tool. These
technological developments in acoustics not only cater to consumer preferences for
high-quality audio experiences but also revolutionize medical diagnostics, showcasing
the broad impact of acoustics across various domains through cutting-edge
innovations.

b. Choose one acoustic technology, describe how it works, and discuss its practical applications in fields
like medicine, music, or environmental noise control.

- Active noise-canceling (ANC) technology is a prominent acoustic technology with widespread

applications, particularly in environmental noise control. ANC works by using microphones to
pick up external sounds, analyzing the frequency and amplitude of these sounds, and then
generating sound waves with equal amplitude but opposite phase. These anti-phase waves are
then played through speakers, effectively canceling out or significantly reducing the unwanted
ambient noise. In the field of environmental noise control, ANC is commonly found in
noise-canceling headphones and earphones. These devices provide a quieter listening
experience by actively reducing or eliminating background noise, making them valuable for
individuals in noisy environments or during travel. The technology has also found applications
in open-plan offices and urban spaces to create quieter and more focused work environments.
The principles of ANC contribute to enhancing overall comfort and reducing stress in various
settings where excessive noise can be a concern.