Sound Wave
Light, Sound and Waves

There's more to sounds...

Physics Narrative for 11-14 Supporting Physics Teaching

Hearing different frequencies, all at once

Frequency and amplitude provide a very good start to describing sounds, but most sounds that we hear in daily life consist of more than one frequency.

This is clearly illustrated when you look at the graphic equaliser display, which actually shows the different ranges of frequencies present in the music.

Just as we recognise familiar faces, so too can we spot familiar voices. You hear a voice much as you see a face – it is instantly recognisable. You can certainly recognise the voice if the loudness is altered, perhaps even if the pitch is changed. The collection of amplitudes and frequencies in the voice, even if distorted, give you many clues.

IOP AWARDS 2025

Teachers of Physics Awards

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