The Physics of Vibrations and Sound

Waves are disturbances that transfer energy from one place to another. They can be seen in water, heard as sound, or even used in technology (like radio waves).

Types of Waves

• Mechanical Waves: Require a medium (like air or water) to travel—sound waves are a common example.
• Electromagnetic Waves: Can travel through empty space—like light and radio waves.

Sound

Sound is a mechanical wave produced by vibrating objects. The speed, pitch, and volume of sound depend on the properties of the wave.

Applications

• Musical instruments use vibrations to produce different sounds.
• Ultrasound is used in medicine to view inside the human body.

Why It Matters

Waves help us communicate, listen to music, and even see (since light is a wave).