a method and apparatus generates kinetic and electrical energy using sound waves and is believed to be particularly useful in high efficiency motors and electrical generators . in particular , the method and apparatus uses sound waves as a catalyst to convert ambient heat energy into kinetic and / or electrical energy . in one embodiment , sound waves at particular frequencies are propagated across one side of a plate or other barrier element , causing flow of fluid across the surface of the plate which , in turn , causes a reduction in the ambient fluid pressure near the surface of the plate . the difference in fluid pressure on opposite sides of the plate results in net positive thrust on the plate , thereby causing movement of the plate . this movement can be harnessed using , for example , a windmill type of rotor and stator arrangement to generate useful kinetic and electrical energy .