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Nature of Sound Waves
Sound in air is a longitudinal mechanical wave.
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Nature of Sound Waves
Recommended for Class 10
Nature of Sound Waves
Sound waves in air are longitudinal mechanical waves.
Longitudinal
Air particles vibrate approximately parallel to the direction in which the sound wave travels.
Mechanical
Sound needs a material medium.
Pressure and Density Variation
Sound consists of alternating compressions and rarefactions.
Compression:
higher local pressure and density.
Rarefaction:
lower local pressure and density.
Frequency
Frequency determines pitch.
Amplitude
Amplitude is related to sound intensity and perceived loudness.
Speed
Sound speed depends on properties of the medium and temperature.
Nature of Sound Waves — Advanced
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Practice
PQ
Q1. Define nature of sound in air.
PQ
Q2. Explain longitudinal vibration.
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Q3. Define compression.
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Q4. Define rarefaction.
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Q5. State frequency and amplitude effects.
Exam Practice
EQ
Q1. Explain the nature of sound waves in air.
EQ
Q2. Explain longitudinal vibration.
EQ
Q3. Differentiate compression and rarefaction.
EQ
Q4. Explain why sound is mechanical.
EQ
Q5. Relate frequency and amplitude to pitch and loudness.
School-standard facts for Matric and Intermediate. Original explanations — not copied from textbooks.