characteristics of sound
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Science.
Characteristics of Sound
Overview
Sound is essentially a vibration perceived by our sense of hearing. Typically, these vibrations travel through the air to reach our ears. The ear converts these sound waves into nerve impulses, which are then interpreted by the brain as sound. In more technical terms: Sound involves "an alternation in pressure, particle displacement, or particle velocity propagated in an elastic material" (Olson 1957).
Key Characteristics
Sound is also understood as a series of mechanical compressions and rarefactions, or longitudinal waves, that move through slightly compressible media. The source of these waves can be anything that causes vibration, like a violin string being played.
There are four main characteristics of sound:
1. Frequency: This is the number of air pressure oscillations per second at a fixed point, determining the pitch of the sound. The human ear can usually hear frequencies from about 20 to 20,000 Hz. This range may decrease with age.
2. Wavelength: This is the distance between successive crests of a wave.
3. Amplitude: This refers to the magnitude of pressure changes within the wave, essentially representing the volume. Higher pressure points, or crests, are followed by lower pressure points, or troughs.
4. Velocity: The speed of sound depends mostly on the type, temperature, and pressure of the medium it travels through. In air, sound speed is unaffected by air pressure due to its gas-like properties.
Human Perception
Humans can perceive a wide range of sounds, but exposure to levels above 85 dBSPL can start to damage hearing. Sounds exceeding 130 dBSPL can be painful, reaching what's known as the "threshold of pain." This threshold can also vary between individuals and with age.
Understanding the characteristics of sound helps us appreciate how these vibrations create the rich tapestry of audio experiences in our daily lives.
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