Discover the Science Behind the Noises of Clapping Hands | Explained by Mayday

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the science behind the sound produced when clapping hands. It concludes that the shape of the hands significantly affects the sound quality; flat hands produce a slapping noise, while slightly concave hands create a louder and deeper sound. The variation in sound is attributed to the compression of air and the frequency of vibrations, with curved hands generating lower frequencies compared to flat hands. This phenomenon is linked to the principles of resonance and sound wave dynamics.

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  • Understanding of sound wave dynamics
  • Basic principles of resonance
  • Knowledge of frequency and amplitude in sound
  • Familiarity with air compression concepts
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  • Research the physics of sound waves and their properties
  • Explore the concept of resonance in acoustics
  • Study the relationship between hand shapes and sound production
  • Investigate air compression and its effects on sound intensity
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Anyone interested in acoustics, sound engineering, or the physics of sound production, including educators, students, and hobbyists exploring the science behind everyday phenomena.

_Mayday_
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Hi, the other day while clapping :cool: I started thinking what was actually making the noise! This could well be one of those things everyone should know but I have no idea.

Clapping your hands when they are flat makes a slapping noise, but when giving them a slight concave shape, you achieve a louder and deeper sound. Note that, the hands are moving at the same speed, so difference in noise is due to the shape. Is it just hand on hand, or is there something else going on?

Thanks! :bugeye:

_Mayday_
 
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well, to me i guesss is the compression of air, maybe the moeclues. the forces applied and all make the sound when you clap your hands. Xp
 
In some cases there must be a minimal compression of air, I mean when your hands are nearly flat there cannot be much, but maybe this is what causes the variance in sound.
 
the intensity of the compression of the air only changes the volume of the sound, while the frequency of the vibration changes the sound. It means that when you clap your curved hands, somehow the frequency of the vibration created is lower than with flat hands.
I guess it has something to do with resonance but don't ask me why lol
 
Cheers Celunas.
 

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