Question

Softer (quicker) sounds are caused by vibrations with which of the following characteristics?

a. Higher frequencies
b. Smaller amplitudes
c. Larger amplitudes
d. Lower frequencies

Answer 1

Softer sounds are caused by vibrations with smaller amplitudes, which relate to the volume of the sound, and not by higher or lower frequencies, which affect pitch.

Step-by-step explanation:

Softer (quicker) sounds are caused by vibrations with smaller amplitudes. The amplitude of a sound wave determines its loudness or volume. A larger amplitude indicates a louder sound, and a smaller amplitude indicates a softer sound. The frequency of a sound wave affects its pitch, with higher frequencies producing a higher pitch and lower frequencies a lower pitch. When you are speaking more loudly than softly, it is the amplitude of the wave that increases, not the frequency. Frequency is often mistaken as the property that increases loudness, but it is actually associated with the pitch of the sound.