Sound and Pitch Interactive Simulation

Sound travels through air at about 343 m/s. The pitch you hear depends on frequency (f): a higher note vibrates faster, packing more wave cycles into a second, which shortens the wavelength (λ = v / f). A concert A (440 Hz) has a wavelength of about 78 cm. Students can change frequency and compare what happens. Use it for physics inquiry with Grades 4–5, Middle School, and High School on a projector or student device.

Standards: NGSS 4-PS4-1

• How raising the frequency (higher pitch) squeezes the wave and shortens λ
• Why bass notes (low f) have very long wavelengths while dog whistles are tiny
• Reading λ = v/f off the live formula as you slide the frequency

1. 1Predict how changing frequency will affect the wavelength, then test the prediction.
2. 2Use evidence from the live calculation and visual to explain the result.

Questions teachers ask