The discussion clarifies that the energy of a sound wave primarily affects its amplitude, not its speed, frequency, or wavelength. Speed is determined by the medium, with air typically allowing sound to travel at 1130 ft/s. Frequency and wavelength are inversely related; knowing one allows calculation of the other using the wave speed. Energy distribution from a sound source is calculated based on the area of a sphere, adjusted for the environment, such as one-half or one-eighth of the sphere's area depending on surrounding surfaces. Additionally, when converting energy levels to sound pressure level (SPL), the logarithmic nature of decibels must be considered.