Explore how tuning forks produce sound waves with different frequencies.
Strike different forks to observe pitch, amplitude, and wave patterns!
Observation:
Higher frequency tuning forks produce higher pitched sounds with closer wave spacing.
The Science of Sound Waves
Key Properties:
- Frequency: Number of vibrations per second (Hz) - determines pitch
- Amplitude: Height of the wave - determines loudness
- Wavelength: Distance between wave peaks - changes with frequency
How Tuning Forks Work:
- When struck, the prongs vibrate at a specific frequency
- Vibrations create pressure waves in the air (sound)
- Higher frequencies produce more waves per second
- In water, you can see the vibrations create ripples
Real-world Applications:
- Musical Instruments: Tuning reference for orchestras
- Hearing Tests: Testing different frequency ranges
- Physics Experiments: Demonstrating wave properties
- Sonar Technology: Underwater sound wave principles
