Decibels and Acoustical Engineering
In this lesson, students learn that sound is energy and has the ability to do work. Students discover that sound is produced by a vibration and they observe soundwaves and how they travel through mediums. They understand that sound can be absorbed, reflected or transmitted. Through associated activities, videos and a PowerPoint presentation led by the teacher, students further their exploration of sound through discussions in order to build background knowledge.
Acoustical engineers are experts in the properties of sound as well as understanding acoustic concepts such as decibels.Copyright 2013 Trevor Cox, CC-BY-SA-3.0, Wikimedia Commons, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Measuring_a_diffuser_in_an_anechoic_chamber.png
An acoustical engineer studies, designs, and applies the science of sound and vibration in practical settings. Acoustical engineers must be able to analyze sound so they can design structures and technology to control it, and they also must understand the underlying concepts (such a decibels) that allow them to quantitatively measure sound and vibration effects on structures. Acoustical engineers may work with engineers and other construction professionals where sound improvement or noise reduction is a priority.
Acoustical engineers help create environments in which we can hear the sounds that we actually want to hear and omit the sounds that we have no desire to hear. For instance, symphony halls are designed to optimize sound for the audience while a seminar hall may offer acoustics that benefit both the speaker and the listener. Recording studios may employ certain designs that optimize sound output and minimize ambient noise.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate and explain what type of materials absorb sound.
- Communicate the results of their research with their classmates.