Two tones at 300 Hz and 320 Hz produce a beat frequency of 20 Hz. Which option correctly states the beat frequency?

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Multiple Choice

Two tones at 300 Hz and 320 Hz produce a beat frequency of 20 Hz. Which option correctly states the beat frequency?

Explanation:
Beats arise when two tones have close frequencies; the amplitude of their sum oscillates at a rate equal to the difference between the two frequencies. With 300 Hz and 320 Hz, the difference is 20 Hz, so the loudness fluctuates 20 times per second. That means the beat frequency is 20 Hz, and you’d hear the amplitude modulate with a period of 1/20 second. The individual tones are 300 Hz and 320 Hz, and their sum would be 620 Hz, which is not the beat.

Beats arise when two tones have close frequencies; the amplitude of their sum oscillates at a rate equal to the difference between the two frequencies. With 300 Hz and 320 Hz, the difference is 20 Hz, so the loudness fluctuates 20 times per second. That means the beat frequency is 20 Hz, and you’d hear the amplitude modulate with a period of 1/20 second. The individual tones are 300 Hz and 320 Hz, and their sum would be 620 Hz, which is not the beat.

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