The formulas for sound wave displacement and pressure are presented in the window below. The animation on the right illustrates how a particle oscillates when affected by the compressions and expansions of a sound wave.
The displacement demonstration is shown in the window below. The physics student is directed to select various combinations of frequency and amplitude, and to observe the effects on the particle. Increased frequency should increase the rate of oscillation while increased amplitude should increase the magnitude of the oscillation.
Return to sound wave module page