Sounds Around You: What Makes That Sound?

Every day, we are surrounded by sounds — from birds singing to engines humming, from footsteps on gravel to the sizzle of food in a pan. But do you know what actually makes those sounds? Sound is caused by vibrations that travel through the air, water, or solid objects and reach our ears. Different materials and motions create very different noises! In this quiz, you’ll test your knowledge of the sounds in your everyday life — what causes them, how they work, and why they sound the way they do. Ready to listen closely and learn more about the world of sound? Let’s begin!
No. 1 /10
What causes a bell to ring?

Vibrating metal
Air passing through holes
Magnetic fields
Electric currents
No. 2 /10
What causes the sizzle when food hits a hot pan?

Water turning into steam
Oil breaking down
Fat melting
Pan expanding
No. 3 /10
Why does a balloon pop with a bang?

Sudden release of air pressure
Rubber melting
Electric spark
Gas reacting with air
No. 4 /10
What causes thunder?

Rapid expansion of heated air
Clouds colliding
Lightning hitting objects
Earth vibrations
No. 5 /10
Why do guitar strings make sound?

Vibrations in the string
Air blown across the string
Magnetic fields
Electric current
No. 6 /10
What makes footsteps sound louder on wooden floors?

Wood amplifies vibrations
Shoes are heavier
Air moves differently
Feet strike harder
No. 7 /10
Why do we hear echoes?

Sound bouncing off surfaces
Air vibration delays
Background noise
Wind carrying sound
No. 8 /10
What causes a whistle to make sound?

Air vibrating in the tube
Pressure buildup
Metal resonance
Heat expansion
No. 9 /10
What makes a cat purr?

Muscle vibrations in the throat
Breathing fast
Heartbeats
Air in lungs
No. 10 /10
Why does glass sometimes 'sing' when you run a wet finger around it?

Friction causing vibrations
Air currents
Electric charge
Temperature change
Submit