AFOQT Practice Test

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Prepare for the AFOQT Test with our comprehensive quiz. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions complete with hints and explanations. Get ready for your AFOQT exam!

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What does the loudness of a sound depend on?

The frequency of the sound wave
The amplitude of the sound wave
The wavelength of the sound wave
The speed of sound in a medium

The correct answer is: The amplitude of the sound wave

The loudness of a sound is primarily determined by the amplitude of the sound wave. Amplitude refers to the height of the sound wave, and larger amplitude means greater energy is being transmitted by the wave. This increased energy translates to a higher perceived loudness when we hear the sound. In contrast, frequency refers to how many times the wave cycles per second and is associated with the pitch of the sound rather than its loudness. Wavelength, which is the distance between successive peaks of the wave, is also related to frequency and pitch. The speed of sound in a medium pertains to how fast sound travels through that medium but does not directly influence the loudness of the sound itself. Therefore, the correct distinction lies in understanding that amplitude is the key factor that directly correlates with how loud a sound is perceived.