Sound Design Waves And Sound 3

Question 1

What is the term for the number of complete wave cycles that pass a fixed point per second?

Accepted Answer

Frequency

Answer

Frequency, measured in Hertz (Hz), counts how many complete cycles occur per second at a given point.

Question 2

How does sound energy behave as it spreads outward from a point source in free space?

Accepted Answer

Intensity follows the inverse square law

Answer

Sound intensity from a point source decreases by the inverse square of distance — doubling the distance reduces intensity to one quarter.

Question 3

Which waveform contains only odd-numbered harmonics, giving it a hollow, woody timbre?

Accepted Answer

Square wave

Answer

A square wave contains only odd harmonics (1st, 3rd, 5th…), which produces its characteristic hollow tone used to emulate clarinets.

Question 4

What is the fundamental frequency of a vibrating string that also produces partials at 440 Hz, 660 Hz, and 880 Hz?

Accepted Answer

220 Hz

Answer

The partials 440, 660, and 880 Hz are the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th harmonics, meaning the fundamental (1st harmonic) is 220 Hz.

Question 5

Diffraction of sound refers to which phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

Sound bending around obstacles or through openings

Answer

Diffraction is the bending of sound waves around edges or through gaps, which is why you can hear sound around corners.

Sound Design Practice Test