Acoustics

Distance traveled in unit time (m/s)
 * Speed**

**Frequency** Number of complete waves in one second (Hz)

Distance between matching points on the wave (m)
 * Wavelength **

Vibration paralell to direction of travel
 * Longitudinal **

Vibration at right angle to direction of travel
 * Transverse **

Big objects create big waves, which means low frecuency notes. Small objects create smaller waves which means high frecuency notes. By the wave an object makes when it moves or vibrates to create sound, can give us the origin point of the sound. Reverberance is linked to the speed at which sound energy disappears in a room. An unfurnished room with hard surfaces, such as a church, is perceived as being more reverberant than a well-furnished living room. Room acoustics are about the way in which sound behaves in a room. Sound transmission, sound absorption, sound reflection and sound diffusion are all aspects that are important here. Room acoustics also include how we as humans perceive different acoustic phenomena.The field of building acoustics covers sound insulation too, where the route that the sound takes from the room to other areas is included. A room and its acoustic quality should be a support for people and the activities in which they are involved. To create the correct acoustic conditions is to create Room Acoustic Comfort™. Room acoustic comfort is an important element of the sound environment concept and this, along with light, air and perception of the room, is in turn a natural component of the total indoor environment. The room acoustic descriptors are guidance for achieving the desired acoustic function and for ensuring room acoustic comfort where people, and what they do, are put in focus. n many of the commonly occurring types of rooms that we talk about here, a sound-absorbing ceiling is a practical aid for achieving Room Acoustic Comfort™ (RAC™). The ceiling’s sound-absorbing properties are described in sound absorption classes (A-E) in an international standard. Class A is the highest level of sound absorption. In many environments where people are present and communicate, high sound levels are perceived as one of the most disturbing factors. High noise levels have a negative effect on us and affect health, communication, safety, economy (effectiveness/productivity), learning and general wellbeing. It is therefore important that you as an architect remember that room acoustic comfort does not only involve a certain reverberation time. To reduce sound levels, it is important to consider other descriptors that are directly linked to sound levels, such as Strength

This pictures are a clear example of the use of the acoustics in a room!