What Is the Difference Between Audible and Inaudible Sound?

Discover the key differences between audible and inaudible sounds, including frequency ranges and how they affect humans and technology.

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Audible sound refers to sound waves that fall within the human hearing range, typically between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz. These are the sounds we can hear. In contrast, inaudible sound includes frequencies outside this range, such as infrasound (below 20 Hz) and ultrasound (above 20,000 Hz), which the human ear cannot detect. While we can't hear inaudible sounds, they can still have effects on objects and can be utilized in various technologies like ultrasound imaging.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What frequency range is considered audible sound? Audible sound typically falls within the frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, which is the range detectable by the average human ear.
  2. What are examples of inaudible sounds? Inaudible sounds include infrasound (frequencies below 20 Hz) and ultrasound (frequencies above 20,000 Hz), which humans cannot hear but can be used in technology and animal communication.
  3. How is ultrasound used in technology? Ultrasound is used in various technologies such as medical imaging (ultrasound scans), industrial non-destructive testing, and cleaning processes due to its high-frequency sound waves.

Watch More

If you found this explanation useful, explore our related videos on sound waves, how ultrasound imaging works, and the physics of infrasound to deepen your understanding of sound across different frequencies.

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