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UnitGrades 3 - 5

Sound and Light

Two images illustrate light and sound: (top) An animation of a continuous beam of light being dispersed by a prism. The white beam represents many wavelengths of visible light, of which 7 are shown, as they travel through a vacuum. (bottom) A circa 1960 black-and-white image shows the visible pattern of sound waves emitting from a horn.Students investigate sound and light waves

Students are provided with an understanding of sound and light waves through a "sunken treasure" theme—a continuous storyline throughout the lessons. In the first five lessons, students learn about sound, and in the rest of the lessons, they explore light concepts.

Engineers create new things for the benefit of society; they apply their understanding of the science of sound and light waves to the invention and evolution of many devices and products used daily for improved living, safety or prevention of harm. Sonar, reading glasses, light bulbs, stereo equipment and lasers, are just a few of the many items that engineers are involved in designing. To develop the technologies necessary to create these items, engineers must thoroughly understand how sound and light waves work, as well as wavelengths and amplitudes of waves. For example, engineers design vessels that travel on ocean waves and tsunami detection devices to warn people of approaching danger.

Engineers apply their understanding of frequencies to design many commonly used items such as lights, televisions and even traffic signals. Frequency is an important aspect of music; notes with different frequencies make different sounds. Acoustic engineers help to design theatres and auditoriums in order to optimize the sounds produced on stage for the benefit of the audience.

Being able to see is crucial for many everyday tasks. Engineers have developed electricity and lighting to help us see in the dark. Lighting engineers design the lighting systems where we live and work, customizing them for specific needs and conditions.

The list of how engineers apply their understanding of waves goes on and on, such as the use of electromagnetic waves in gamma radiation emitted by fuel rods in nuclear power plants, x-rays to peer inside our bodies, ultraviolet light for sanitation, microwaves for cooking, and radio waves to communicate over large distances.

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