Sound

The vibration of air molecules in the atmosphere that can be sensed by the ear. A sound wave is produced by a force that vibrates the surrounding air molecules, such as a stick striking a wooden surface or a guitar string being plucked. As the air molecules are set in motion, they radiate outwards, colliding into other air molecules like a chain of falling dominoes, until they strike the ear drum. Each type of disturbance in the atmosphere produces a distinct pattern of vibrations. These patterns of vibrating air molecules give a sound its unique loudness, pitch, and timbre.