Definition of Sound

No doubt, sound means different things to different people. In this class, however, we will adopt the formal definition of sound that is used in the physical sciences. Write it down!

Definition: Sound is a mechanical disturbance propagated through an elastic medium.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN?!

Let's consult Webster's Unabridged:

• mechanical - having to do with machines
• disturbance - agitation
• propagate - to generate
• elastic - rubber
• medium - an intervening thing through which a force acts

We'll have alot more to say about the definition of sound in class. For now, however, simply think of sound as motion. In this lecture, we'll make some informal observations of sound as a special type of motion that oscillates.

Keywords to watch for: kinematics, dynamics, particle, simple harmonic motion

Question: If a tree falls in a forest and no one is there to hear it does it make a sound?

Mail me your answer.