Pitch and Frequency
To further their understanding of sound energy, students identify the different pitches and frequencies created by a vibrating ruler and a straw kazoo. They create high- and low-pitch sound waves.
Students explore sound energy by investigating pitch and frequency.Copyright http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/sound/tfl.gif
Electrical engineers understand sound energy as part of the electronic devices and tools they design, such as iPods, radios, test equipment, medical equipment and sonar. Often, they design equipment that can "hear" ultrasound and infrasonic sounds not detectable with human hearing. Ultrasound can test metals and plastics in manufactured equipment for tiny flaws and cracks that indicate product weaknesses. They also design medical equipment that uses ultrasound to diagnose unseen body conditions or injury. Acoustics engineers are specialists in noise control and acoustic design in a given space or structure, such as auditoriums, airports or art galleries. Audio (or sound) engineers work in multimedia, generating and broadcasting sounds mechanically.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Define pitch and frequency.
- Describe a sound with a high or low pitch and frequency.
- Describe how to change the pitch of a sound.
- Give an example how engineers use pitch and frequency in the design of new products.