Question

Which factors determine the quality of the note?

• A. Frequency
• B. Wavelength
• C. Wave form
• D. Time period

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Wave form

The explanation for the correct option:

1. The waveform of the sound determines the quality of the note.
2. The sound heard will be clear and sharp if the waveform contains only one frequency of sound.
3. The sound heard is not sharp or clear if the waveform is a superposition of different sound waves with different frequencies.

The explanation for the incorrect options:

Option A: The number of completed wave cycles per second is referred to as frequency.

Option B: The wavelength of light is defined as the distance between two wave motion crests or troughs.

Option D: The time period is the time taken by a complete cycle of the wave to pass a point.

Two notes of the same pitch and intensity performed from different instruments don't sound identical because the waveforms fluctuate and thus the quality or tone differs.

Hence, option (C) is correct.