In a typed essay, describe the process of Fourier analysis and how it is used in the analysis of sound. You do not need to explain or demonstrate any actual calculations, but you should be able to explain in words the basics of what is done, and why. Then, using the provided applet (Links to an external site.), design several sound waves of your own and observe how changes to the shape of the wave affect the timbre of the sound. What observations can you make? What patterns do you notice? Your essay must include answers to all of these questions, and should be at least one full page, double-spaced, with font size no larger than 12. (The minimum length is one full page, but there is no maximum length. Many of you will find you need more than one page to thoroughly answer the questions; this is fine).

If you choose to use equations or formulas in your paper, and have the ability to process math symbols (say, using LaTeX or Lyx) into a typed format, that would be preferred, but if not, any equations you feel are important to include may be handwritten if they are clear and legible. Any sources used other than your classroom notes must be cited properly in some format, including the recommended resources below. MLA, APA, AMA, etc. is irrelevant to me. Your sources should be cited on a separate “works cited” page, and should not contribute to the length of your essay. Your work will be analyzed by Turnitin for plagiarism; so if any quotes are pulled directly from a source, you must attribute them to the author and cite the source properly.