When the compression of one longitudinal sound wave overlaps with the compression of a second sound wave the result is:

When the compression of one longitudinal sound wave overlaps with the compression of a second sound wave the result is:

• A. A quieter sound
• B. A louder sound
• C. A higher pitch
• D. A lower pitch

Answer: (B)

When the compression regions of two longitudinal sound waves meet, their pressure fluctuations add together. This constructive interference makes the overall amplitude larger, so the air particles move more and the sound is heard as louder. Pitch, which depends on frequency, doesn’t change in this situation, so overlapping compressions don’t raise or lower the note. If a compression met a rarefaction, you’d get a partial cancellation and a softer sound, but aligned compressions specifically boost loudness.

When the compression regions of two longitudinal sound waves meet, their pressure fluctuations add together. This constructive interference makes the overall amplitude larger, so the air particles move more and the sound is heard as louder. Pitch, which depends on frequency, doesn’t change in this situation, so overlapping compressions don’t raise or lower the note. If a compression met a rarefaction, you’d get a partial cancellation and a softer sound, but aligned compressions specifically boost loudness.