A new University of Mississippi study shows that some sound waves don't just move forward—they also move slightly to the side. Understanding this movement could help researchers develop more precise ...

In everyday life, designing spaces that both let air flow and absorb sound can be a tricky balancing act. Usually, materials that allow air to pass through—like vents—also let sound escape, making it ...

The most important mechanical wave to our everyday lives is sound. So how exactly do we hear? What is the definition of sound? The Definition of Sound The first thing we should understand about sound ...

A strange form of matter called a time crystal has fascinated physicists for about a decade. These systems move in repeating ...

Although few people ever get the chance to travel at the speed of sound, it is an alluring flight goal and an impressive technological feat. Though average people have flown at high speeds on ...

A research team has discovered a new type of sound wave: the airborne sound wave vibrates transversely and carries both spin and orbital angular momentum like light does. The findings shattered ...

Upper limit: a US Navy F/A-18 travelling near the speed of sound in air. The white halo comprises water droplets that have condensed from the air because of the sudden drop in pressure behind the ...

Researchers in the US have made a “carpet cloak” that makes objects invisible to sound waves. The device is the first such cloak to work in air and could be used to improve the acoustics in concert ...

Sometimes, even the simplest things can set off a quantum phenomenon.

Chris Impey receives funding from the National Science Foundation. Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to ...