• Reflected: The sound wave bounces off the surface. This occurs with surfaces that are flat and rigid, like a concrete wall. Echoes occur when you hear the same sound reflected back at you.
• Diffused: The sound wave is broken up and scatters in different directions. This occurs with irregular surfaces such as carpet.
• Absorbed: The sound wave is absorbed into the material, decreasing the sound energy (reduced amplitude), as the vibrations are converted into friction and heat This occurs with soft materials such as foam.
• Transmitted: The sound waves pass through the material, causing the material to vibrate.

The size, shape and materials used in a room will each change how sound travels, which then changes how something sounds in that space. Think of how your own voice sounds in your bedroom at home as compared to how it sounds when you are in a gym or the shower.