The Physics Classroom: Sound Is a Pressure Wave

This physics tutorial invites users to discover that sound is a mechanical wave. Be sure click on the animation for further study.

Students see illustrated diagrams and animations to help them understand the pressure characteristics of a sound wave.

Discusses the physics of how sound travels. Includes a video of a volcanic eruption that demonstrates the speed of sound waves.

A very good introduction to the world of waves. Waves and wavelike motion, what is a wave, and categories of waves are the topics examined in this site. Many links to other wave sites.

Students explore and discover how sound is created through longitudinal waves.

Understand how sound is transmitted through the ear and perceived by the brain in this reference page. Page includes content and an animation.

This interactive physics tutorial allows students to investigate the nature, properties and behaviors of sound waves and apply basic wave principles towards an understanding of music.

Through illustrated diagrams and interactive practice examples, students explore the physics of sound in open-end air column musical instruments.

Through illustrated diagrams and interactive practice examples, students explore the physics of sound in closed-end air column musical instruments.

Using diagrams and animations, students discover how the anatomy of the ear and the physics of sound waves work together to allow us to hear.