Properties of Sound Waves — Quiz

Question 7 • Physics

These graphs show measurements of the density of air as different sound waves pass a single point. Which sound wave will most likely be perceived as the loudest?

Answer

Image with description A graph with time on the x axis and density of air on the y axis. There is a transverse wave that is very short and wide.

Image with description A graph with time on the x axis and density of air on the y axis. There is a transverse wave that is very tall and same width.

Image with description A graph with time on the x axis and density of air on the y axis. There is a transverse wave that is tall.

Image with description A graph with time on the x axis and density of air on the y axis. There is a transverse wave that is short and wide.

Explanation

Loudness depends on the amplitude of a sound wave: greater changes in air density produce a louder sound. Choice B shows the tallest wave, so it has the greatest amplitude and will most likely be perceived as the loudest. The wave’s width relates to frequency, not loudness.

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