UP, Ch 3 Parameters of Sound Waves

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts related to the parameters of sound waves, particularly in the context of ultrasound physics.

What are the seven parameters that completely describe sound waves?

Period, frequency, amplitude, power, intensity, wavelength, and speed.

What unit is period reported in?

Units of time, such as microseconds, seconds, hours, or days.

Is the period adjustable by the sonographer?

No, the period is determined by the sound source only and is not adjustable.

What is the typical value of period in diagnostic ultrasound?

0.06 to 0.5 microseconds.

What units is frequency reported in?

Hertz (Hz), which is units per second.

What is the relationship between frequency and period?

They are inversely related; as frequency increases, period decreases.

What frequency range is considered infrasonic?

Frequencies less than 20 Hz.

What frequency range is considered audible?

Frequencies between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz.

What frequency range is considered ultrasonic?

Frequencies higher than 20,000 Hz.

What does a frequency of 100 Hz represent?

100 cycles per second.

Can the frequency of a sound wave be changed by the sonographer?

No, frequency is determined by the sound source and is not adjustable.

What is the typical frequency range for diagnostic ultrasound?

Approximately 2 to 15 megahertz.

What is the significance of frequency in diagnostic sonography?

It affects penetration and image quality.

What is the reciprocal relationship between frequency and period?

When two reciprocal parameters are multiplied together, the result is one.

What is another term for Medium?

Tissue

What is the difference from period and frequency?

Period is the duration of one cycle of a wave, while frequency measures how many cycles occur in a given time frame.