Physical Science, New York EditionUnit 3:
Energy on the MoveMusical instrumentProject Type - Model Introduction:
From radio waves to light waves to sound waves, we are immersed in a world of waves. Sound waves are compressional waves. When a noise is made, nearby air molecules are pushed together by the vibrations. The air molecules are squeezed together like coils in a coiled-spring toy are when you make a compressional wave with it. The compressions travel through the air to make a wave. In this project, you will create your own musical instrument and explain the physics of your musical instrument. Task:
Design your own creative musical instrument. Your instrument should demonstrate a full scale and be able to be tuned to the proper pitch. Applying appropriate physics terms, explain how your instrument produces a variety of sounds. Using a simple musical score ("Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star," for example) participate in an all-class orchestra with your physics musical instrument. Time:
1 class period to create the instrument and 1 class period to explain physics principles Resources:
Visit these web sites for more information musical instruments, sound, and physics. Characteristics of Sound
http://www.sasked.gov.sk.ca/docs/physics/u5c42phy.html Sound Properties and their Perception
http://www.glenbrook.k12.il.us/gbssci/phys/Class/sound/u11l2d.html Physics of the Plucked String
http://www.harmony-central.com/Guitar/harmonics.html How Acoustic Guitar Works?
http://stuffo.howstuffworks.com/guitar.htm  | 
