56-2820 The Science of Acoustics I

This course introduces the physics of vibrating systems, waves and sound. Topics include the sound spectrum, how the ear works, the transmission of sound through fluids at different temperatures and through different materials and the Doppler effect. The properties of reflection, refraction, diffraction and interference are studied with special emphasis on resonance, standing waves and the Inverse Square Law of the intensity of sound. The course concludes with an introduction to auditorium acoustics and basic electricity used in the operation of speakers and microphones.

3 Credits
SL
PREREQUISITES: ACT (American College Test) score >= 23 or 56-1720 College Mathematics or 56-1728 Quantitative Reasoning or 56-1723 Liberal Arts Mathematics or COMPASS Placement Test score >= 67 or SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) score >= 550 or 56-27 or 56-37