Today’s Wonder of the Day was inspired by madeline. madeline Wonders, “How are headphones made?” Thanks for WONDERing with us, madeline!

Do you love listening to music? Maybe podcasts or audiobooks are more your style. You might even click that “Listen” button at the top of each Wonder of the Day. If so, you may already know a bit about today’s topic. What are we talking about? Earbuds, of course!

New devices have long changed the way people listen to entertainment. Inventions like the phonograph, boombox, and MP3 players have all made a splash in their own time. Earbuds are one of the newest additions!

Have you ever WONDERed exactly how earbuds work? How does something so small make so much sound? You’re not the only one asking questions. With the latest wireless earbuds, even more people are interested in how these devices work. 

Inside an earbud, you’ll find several small parts. These all work together to deliver sound. If you’re using wired earbuds, the sound travels through wires that connect to the speaker. The speaker itself is made of a wire coil, magnet, and cone. The device’s case holds these pieces together.

Of course, many people today use wireless earbuds. These use Bluetooth technology in place of wires. They include a Bluetooth module to receive sound. They also carry a battery and a small microphone.

If you’re unfamiliar with Bluetooth, it may seem like magic. However, it’s not all that different from how radios and walkie talkies work. Bluetooth devices connect to each other and communicate using antennae. These send and receive information through short-range radio signals. That’s why wireless earbuds need to be close to a device in order to pick up signals.

Each year, more advanced devices hit the shelves. Some of today’s earbuds already have health monitoring features. They’re able to measure a wearer’s step count and heart rate. What does the future hold? Just about anything is possible.

Do you use earbuds? What creative ways can you think of to make this technology even better? Maybe the next big breakthrough will come from you!

Standards: CCRA.R.1, CCRA.R.2, CCRA.R.4, CCRA.R.10, CCRA.L.1, CCRA.L.2, CCRA.L.3, CCRA.L.6, CCRA.W.2, CCRA.SL.1, CCRA.SL.2, NCAS.A.1, NCAS.A.2, NCAS.A.3

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