The Coolest Things Sound Waves Do

Summary

This Dnews episode explores the remarkable capabilities of sound, a powerful wave of energy that can be harnessed for various applications. From the audible range of 20Hz to 20,000Hz, sound waves can break glass through resonance and even levitate objects. Recent advancements at ETH Zurich have enabled the manipulation of levitated substances, with potential uses in drug manufacturing. Additionally, sound waves are used in long-range acoustic devices, which can cause physical discomfort at high volumes, and in devices that affect the human body at specific frequencies, demonstrating sound's diverse and impactful presence in technology and science.

Takeaways

• 👂 Sound is a wave that can be perceived by the human ear within the frequency range of 20Hz to 20,000Hz.
• 🎶 Sound waves contain energy that can be harnessed to perform various actions, such as breaking glass or levitating objects.
• 🥂 A glass can be broken by matching its natural frequency and amplifying the sound to a high volume.
• 🔉 Sound levitation is possible within the audible frequency range and has been advanced to allow movement and manipulation of levitated objects.
• 🏫 ETH Zurich researchers have developed a method to not only levitate objects but also move them around using sound wave energy.
• 🧪 Sound levitation technology can be used to manipulate liquids in drug manufacturing without physical contact.
• 🚀 The LRAD (Long-Range Acoustical Device) uses sound waves to produce intense pain without causing death, similar to a sonic weapon.
• 🌌 Ultra low frequencies or ultrasonic sound can cause physical discomfort, such as vision problems and breathing difficulties, when directed at humans.
• 🎯 The resonant frequency of the human eyeball is 19Hz, which can be exploited to cause vision disturbances with sound.
• 🤔 The script invites viewers to consider and discuss their favorite sound inventions and their potential uses, whether for good or evil.

Q & A

What is sound and how do we perceive it?

Sound is a wave that we perceive with our ears. It is made up of invisible waves of energy passing through substances like ground, water, and air.

What is the frequency range of sound that the human ear can perceive?

The human ear can perceive sound waves with frequencies between 20Hz and 20,000Hz.

How does the process of breaking a glass with sound work?

Breaking a glass with sound works when the sound wave matches the exact frequency of the glass. This causes the glass to vibrate at a high amplitude until it shatters.

What is sound levitation and how has it been advanced recently?

Sound levitation is the process of suspending objects in mid-air using sound waves. Recent advances at ETH Zurich have allowed not only levitation but also the manipulation of levitated objects, including moving them around and adjusting floating fluids.

How do standing waves enable sound levitation?

Standing waves are formed when energy waves reflect back and forth so quickly that they create a point of concentrated energy that can hold an object in mid-air, enabling levitation.

What practical applications does sound levitation have in the pharmaceutical industry?

Sound levitation can be used in drug manufacturing to manipulate liquids, such as combining and separating them, without physical contact, reducing contamination risks.

What is an LRAD and how does it use sound?

An LRAD, or long-range acoustical device, is a device that emits high-intensity sound waves. It can produce sound so loud that it causes physical pain without causing permanent harm.

How can sound waves at specific frequencies affect the human body?

Sound waves at certain frequencies, like 19Hz which is the resonant frequency of the human eyeball, can cause vision problems and physical discomfort. Low frequencies can also impact the lungs and skeleton, causing breathing difficulties, nausea, and joint pain.

What is the connection between the resonant frequency of the eyeball and the sound waves used in the 1950s by NASA and the US Navy?

The resonant frequency of the human eyeball is 19Hz. In the 1950s, NASA and the US Navy used devices that produced ultra low frequencies or ultrasonic sound, which at 19Hz could cause vision problems and other physical effects.

What are some of the sound inventions mentioned in the script that could be used for 'EVIL' purposes?

Some sound inventions that could potentially be misused include LRADs, which can cause intense discomfort, and devices that emit specific frequencies to affect the human body, such as causing vision problems or respiratory issues.

What is the significance of the resonant frequency in relation to sound and objects?

The resonant frequency of an object is the frequency at which it naturally vibrates. When sound waves match this frequency, they can cause the object to vibrate intensely, potentially leading to breakage or other effects.