Question

Which of the following make a ringing sound when hit them?

metal, nonmetal and wood

Answer 1

When the metal is hit, a compressive wave results. This wave moves though the metal until it hits another surface. It then reflects from the surface and continues until its' energy falls to zero. These reflections are what result in a ringing sound.

Answer 2

Metal. The sound reflects off of it due to the sound and light waves and how they act on the material, which causes the ringing sound.