AQA GCSE Microphones (Physics)

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Microphones

Microphones use the generator effect to convert the pressure variations in sound waves into variations in current in electrical circuits.

Microphone

How a microphone works

When the sound wave strikes the black diaphragm cone, causing the diaphragm cone to vibrate backwards and forwards. 

The diaphragm cone is attached to a wire coil, so as the diaphragm cone moves forwards and backwards, so does the coil. 

This will cause the coil to cut the magnetic field lines setting up an alternating induced potential difference across the ends of the coil, due to the generator effect. 

If the coil is part of a complete circuit, then an alternating current will flow. 

Frequency and amplitude of sound wave

If the sound wave has a higher frequency, then the alternating current produced will also have a higher frequency

If the sound wave has a larger amplitude (louder), then the size of the induced potential difference is greater. 

Practice Questions

1.Does a microphone use the motor effect or generator effect?

2. Suggest why this type of microphone is referred to as a moving coil microphone

3. Explain how this microphone works

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