Sound is a wave phenomenon that travels through a medium like air, and while colored gas could theoretically visualize sound waves, detecting sound visually is more effectively achieved with small particles. Cymatics, the study of visible sound and vibration, demonstrates how sound can be visualized through various methods, including using soap films that change thickness in response to sound waves. Although sound waves can be visualized, most everyday sounds are not standing waves and move too quickly to be seen. Techniques like schlieren photography and acousto-optical devices can capture sound waves under certain conditions. Overall, while visualizing sound is possible, practical applications often rely on specialized techniques.
