Reflection, Refraction and Diffraction of Sound

Sound waves show the same major wave behaviours as other waves.

Sound reflects when it meets a boundary. Reflection is responsible for: * echoes; reverberation; sonar applications.

Sound can change direction when its speed changes. In the atmosphere, temperature differences can change sound speed at different heights and cause sound paths to bend.

Sound spreads around obstacles and through openings. Because many sound wavelengths are comparable with everyday openings and objects, diffraction of sound is often noticeable. This is why you may hear someone around a corner even when you cannot see them.