Sound Wave

Sound Wave

Scientific Concept Physical Phenomenon Frequency Pitch Hertz

A sound wave is a **vibration that propagates through a medium** (typically air) as a series of compressions and rarefactions. It is the physical basis of all audible sound.

Characteristics

• **Frequency** → perceived as Pitch
• **Amplitude** → perceived as loudness
• **Waveform** → determines timbre or tone color

In Music

Musical tones are generated by periodic sound waves, with stable frequencies and waveforms. The shape of the wave (sine, square, sawtooth, etc.) influences the sound's character.

Media

Sound waves can travel through:

• Air (speech, acoustic instruments)
• Solids (vibrating strings)
• Liquids (underwater acoustics)

See also

• Frequency
• Hertz
• Pitch