What term is used to describe the perceived frequency of sound?

Study for the NCEA Level 3 Waves Test. Prepare with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

The term used to describe the perceived frequency of sound is pitch. Pitch is how humans perceive the frequency of a sound wave; it determines whether a sound is perceived as low or high. Higher frequencies correspond to higher pitches, and lower frequencies correspond to lower pitches. This perception is largely dependent on the frequency of the sound wave, with higher frequencies (more wave cycles per second) resulting in higher pitch, which is crucial in distinguishing different notes in music or sounds in speech.

Other terms provided in the question refer to different aspects of sound. Tone pertains to the quality or character of a sound, while volume refers to the perceived loudness, which is related to the amplitude of the sound wave. Intensity is a measure of the power carried by a sound wave per unit area; it is also related to amplitude but does not describe how we perceive the frequency aspect of sound. Thus, pitch is the specific term that accurately captures the concept of perceived frequency.

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