Sound Waves Interactive Simulation

Waves obey v = f · λ: the speed of a wave equals its frequency times its wavelength. In air, sound travels at 343 m/s. Changing the medium (to water, for example) raises the speed, stretching the wavelength for the same pitch. Students can change frequency and wave speed 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 frequency and wavelength are inversely linked at a fixed wave speed
• Why sound travels faster in water than in air, stretching the wavelength
• Reading λ = v/f off the live formula with your own numbers
• How the wave diagram changes as you raise frequency or switch medium

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