Sound Waves - Pressure Function
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Sound Waves - Pressure Function
Δp(x,t) = instantaneous pressure variation (Pa); Δp_m = pressure amplitude (Pa); k = angular wavenumber (rad/m); x = position (m); ω = angular frequency (rad/s); t = time (s).
- Related Glossary Terms
Pressure/Displacement Amplitude Relationship, Sound Waves - Displacement Function
- Index
Reviewed physics notes (1)
These corrections keep the original lesson’s purpose while fixing errors in the source edition.
- Instantaneous pressure variation is distinguished from its amplitude. — Reference 1
Glossary and deeper reading · 2 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
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Wave
A wave is a propagating disturbance that can transfer energy without transporting the medium as a whole. Mechanical waves require a material medium, while electromagnetic waves can propagate through vacuum. For example, a pulse travels along a rope while individual rope segments move locally around their equilibrium positions.
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Pressure
Pressure is the normal force per unit area exerted on a surface. It is a scalar measured in pascals, with one pascal equal to one newton per square meter. For example, a gas exerts pressure throughout its volume through many microscopic collisions, even when its bulk motion is zero.