Chapter 15.1, Problem 8SSC

To determine

To identify: Two characteristics of sound affected by medium. Two characteristics of sound not affected by medium of propagation.

Answer to Problem 8SSC

The speed and loudness of a sound wave depends on the medium of propagation.

The frequency and pitch of a sound does not depend on the medium of propagation.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction: The effect of medium on sound characteristics.

As per, properties of sound

Two sound characteristics that depend on the medium of propagation:

1. Speed of sound wave: The speed of sound depends on the medium of propagation.

The denser the medium, the sound travels at a faster rate.

2. Loudness of a sound: The loudness of a sound is affected by the density of the propagating medium. The denser the medium, the louder is the sound.

Two sound characteristics that does not depend on the medium of propagation:

1. Frequency of sound: The frequency of sound wave depends on the source of sound and is therefore not affected by the medium.
2. Pitch of a sound: The pitch of a sound depends on the frequency of vibration. As the frequency is unaffected by the medium, the pitch is also unaffected by the medium of propagation of sound.

Conclusion:

The speed and loudness of a sound wave depends on the medium of propagation.

The frequency and pitch of a sound does not depend on the medium of propagation.