Fundamentals of Acoustics and Sound

2025/2026

Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

The module builds on basic knowledge in linear algebra and calculus

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Learning objectives

Knowledge

  • Must have knowledge about the basic acoustic quantities, their physical significance, and their role in the description of an acoustic process.
  • Must be able to understand the relationship between the acoustic variables and the theoretical basis for the development of the wave equation.
  • Must have knowledge about the principles of sound emission and reception.
  • Must have knowledge of the construction, mechanisms and use of different types of acoustic transducers
  • Must have knowledge of the different measurement procedures and techniques used in acoustics.
  • Must have knowledge of signal processing techniques in acoustic measurement to obtain time and frequency characteristics of acoustic signals.

Skills

  • Must be able to identify relevant acoustic variables for a given sound source and sound field.
  • Must be able to apply the proper assumptions in the calculation or estimation of relevant acoustic variables
  • Must be able to select the proper analytical description for the behavior of sound waves in rooms and cavities.
  • Must be able to calibrate and use electro-acoustic transducers to obtain reproducible measurement.
  • Must be able to select and use exiting transducers based on their parameters.
  • Must be able to choose and calibrate the adequate equipment for a given measurement and to be able to identify and eliminate sources of error.

Competences

  • Must be able to apply theoretical acoustic principles to model the behavior of acoustic systems, such as pipes, resonators, musical instruments, rooms and other enclosures, ventilation ducts, smartphones etc.
  • Must be able to design, carry out and document repeatable acoustic measurements.

Type of instruction

As described in §17

Exam

Exams

Name of examFundamentals of Acoustics and Sound
Type of exam
Written or oral exam
ECTS5
Assessment7-point grading scale
Type of gradingInternal examination
Criteria of assessmentThe criteria of assessment are stated in the Examination Policies and Procedures

Facts about the module

Danish titleAkustik og lyd
Module codeESNAVSK2K2
Module typeCourse
Duration1 semester
SemesterSpring
ECTS5
Language of instructionEnglish
Empty-place SchemeYes
Location of the lectureCampus Aalborg
Responsible for the module

Organisation

Study BoardStudy Board of Electronics and IT
DepartmentDepartment of Electronic Systems
FacultyThe Technical Faculty of IT and Design