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Reflection, Refraction and Diffraction of Sound
Sound can reflect, refract and diffract.
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Reflection, Refraction and Diffraction of Sound
Recommended for Class 10
Reflection, Refraction and Diffraction of Sound
Sound waves show the same major wave behaviours as other waves.
Reflection of Sound
Sound reflects when it meets a boundary.
Reflection is responsible for:
echoes; reverberation; * sonar applications.
Refraction of Sound
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.
Diffraction of Sound
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.
Reflection, Refraction and Diffraction of Sound — Advanced
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Practice
PQ
Q1. Define sound reflection.
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Q2. Define sound refraction.
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Q3. Define sound diffraction.
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Q4. Give an example of reflection.
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Q5. Explain hearing around a corner.
Exam Practice
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Q1. Differentiate reflection, refraction and diffraction of sound.
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Q2. Explain echo using reflection.
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Q3. Explain atmospheric refraction of sound.
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Q4. Give a diffraction example.
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Q5. State applications of sound reflection.
School-standard facts for Matric and Intermediate. Original explanations — not copied from textbooks.