Description: What causes the sounds that we hear every day - a barking dog...a snappy tune...the crackle of static...the whipping of the wind? How does the brain interpret sound? Why does sound change with distance? Where do our voices come from? How is sound embedded on a CD or an audiotape? Here are 29 enjoyable experiments that introduce children age 8 and up to the physics of acoustics and hearing. Geared toward kids' interests in music, musical instruments, and gadgetry, these quick and simple activities are rooted in solid scientific theory such as the Doppler effect, pitch, amplification, and resonation. With complete, step-by-step instructions and common household materials, children can spend a rainy day at home or a school science period doing captivating experiments like these: create thunder in a paper bag; simulate a dog's bark with a plastic milk jug and string; explore sound recording and reproduction with paper, tape, and a sewing needle; and make music with a glass of water and vinegar. Easy-to-understand background on physics principles...science trivia...explanations of expected results...and "what if" questions appear throughout to build reading and thinking skills, and add to the learning fun at home or at school.

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