Acoustics is the science that deals with the study of sound and its production, transmission, and effects. Especially it involves the study of mechanical waves in solids, liquids, and gases which includes sound, vibration, ultrasound, and infrasound. The main application of acoustics is to make the music or speech sound as good as possible. It is achieved by reducing the sound barriers and increasing the factors that help in proper transmission of sound waves. Initially, acoustics was used only in industries which are based on sound like an auditorium, theatre but the application of acoustics spreads to many fields like medicine, warfare, architectural industries, etc.
A scientist or researcher who studies acoustics is called Acoustician and someone working in the field of acoustics technology will be called as Acoustical Engineering.
What is Acoustic Energy?
Acoustic energy can be defined as the disturbance of energy which passes through matter in the form of a wave. In other words, it is the energy concerning the mechanical vibrations from its components is called Acoustic Energy. Any acoustic event has the following stages.
Cause Generating Mechanism Acoustic wave propagation Reception Effect
The process in which some other form of energy is converted into sonic energy producing a sound wave is called transduction process. Sound waves carry energy throughout the propagating medium. The acoustic wave equation is the fundamental equation that describes sound wave propagation. Wave propagation is the key process in any of the acoustic event. Sound propagates in liquids as a pressure wave and in solids as longitudinal or transverse waves.
Subdisciplines of Acoustics
Types of Acoustics
Environmental Noise
Environmental Acoustics is concerned with vibration and noise caused by roadways. Railways, aircraft and general activities that are related to the environment. The main goal of these is to reduce vibration and noise that affects the environment.
Musical Acoustics
Musical acoustics is concerned with the study of physics of music i.e., how sounds are used to make music. Areas of study include human voice, musical instruments, and music therapy.
Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are the sounds with a frequency greater than the human audible limit. However, there is no difference in physical properties when compared to normal sound. Ultrasound is used in many fields. Ultrasonic devices are used in measuring distances and in detecting objects. Ultrasound imaging is used in physics.
Infrasounds
Infrasounds are the sounds with a frequency of less than 20 Hz. The study of such sounds is called infrasonics. Applications include detection of petrol formation under the earth and the possibility of earthquakes.
Vibration and Dynamics
It is the study of how mechanical systems vibrate and interact with their environment. Applications include Vibration control which helps to protect a building from earthquakes and ground vibrations used in railways.
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