Ultrasound is a type of sound wave that has a frequency higher than 20 kHz. This means that the frequency of an ultrasound wave is greater than 20,000 cycles per second.
Definition
Ultrasound: Sound waves with a frequency greater than 20 kHz.
Properties of Ultrasound
High Frequency: The defining characteristic of ultrasound.
Long Wavelength: Due to the high frequency, ultrasound waves have relatively long wavelengths.
Not Audible to Humans: The human ear cannot hear frequencies above 20 kHz.
Can Penetrate Materials: Ultrasound waves can travel through certain materials like water, air, and some solids.
Applications of Ultrasound
Ultrasound has a wide range of applications, including:
Medical Imaging: Used in ultrasound scans to create images of internal body organs.
Cleaning: Used in ultrasonic cleaners to remove dirt and grime from delicate objects.
Sonar: Used by ships and submarines to detect objects underwater.
Non-Destructive Testing: Used to check for flaws in materials without damaging them.
Animal Navigation: Bats and dolphins use ultrasound for echolocation to navigate and find prey.
Table summarizing Ultrasound Properties
Property
Value
Frequency
Greater than 20 kHz
Wavelength
Relatively long
Audibility to Humans
Not audible
Penetration
Can penetrate certain materials
Figure: Suggested diagram: A diagram showing a sound wave with a frequency higher than 20 kHz labeled as ultrasound. The diagram should also indicate that it is not audible to humans.
Suggested diagram: A diagram showing a sound wave with a frequency higher than 20 kHz labeled as ultrasound. The diagram should also indicate that it is not audible to humans.