The Physics of Sound
Physically, sound is simply the compression of air around us. However, this relatively simple description obscures a much richer understanding of sound. From how different sounds are generated and perceived to how different sounds can combine to make something new to how to design acoustically pleasant spaces, the physics of sound plays a key role. This course is about the fundamentals that underlie sound and is designed to serve as an introduction to those who are interested in going further. We will discuss wave theory, sound propagation, constructive and destructive interference, beats, and resonance, among other ideas. This course will be mixed between a lecture/discussion and a hands-on lab and students will be expected to design their own final project
Our textbook for the class is: Physics and Music: The Science of Musical Sound, by White & White
We will meet:
Tuesdays from 8:30am to 12:10pm in Dickinson 232
| Date | Topic | Reading | Problem Set | Lab |
| April 14 | Fundamentals of Waves and Sound (Atom Tones) | Ch. 1-5 | Problem Set 1 | Lab 1 |
| April 21 | Interference, Resonance, and Beats | Ch. 6-10 | Problem Set 2 | Lab 2 |
| April 28 | Vibrating Strings | Ch. 11 – 14 | Problem Set 3 Final Project | |
| May 5 | PLAN DAY (No Class) | |||
| May 12 | Musical Instruments | Ch. 6.6, 16-19 | Problem Set 4 | Lab 3 |
| May 19 | Recording and Sensing Sound | Ch. 21-25 | Problem Set 5 | Lab 4 Lab 4 Music Clip |
| May 26 | Acoustics + Final Projects | Ch. 26-28 |
