A question about hearing - help please

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In summary, Dave is asking about the time delay between the voicebox producing sound and the ear registering it. Chi Meson provides a quick estimate of the speed of sound through bone and calculates that it would take about 50 microseconds for the sound to reach the middle ear from the voicebox. Dave thanks Chi Meson for the answer.
  • #1
dave_t
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Hi all

Does anyone know the time delay through the head between the voicebox producing sound and the ear registering it?

Thanks in advance

Dave
 
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  • #2
Well, what does "registering" mean? The time that the person should become aware of the sound, or simply the time the sound reaches the ear end of the auric nerve(s)? Also, I think you should specify the center of the voicebox. It would make a big difference if you are interested in the edge of the voicebox nearest the nearest ear instead.

In any case, I dunno, sorry.
 
  • #3
A very quick estimate of the speed of sound through bone is about 2500 m/s (speed of sound through solids is equal to the square root of the ("young's modulus" over the density) or sqrt (Y/rho). Young's modulus of bone is about 10^10 N/m^2.

It's about 13 cm from the voicebox to the middle ear (give or take a cm), so sound will get there in about 50 microseconds. The composition (densities and elasticities) of bone varies through the body, so this is just a rough estimate.
 
  • #4
Good answer Chi Meson!
 
  • #5
Thanks so much for the reply Chi

Regards

Dave
 

What is hearing?

Hearing is the ability to perceive sound through the ear by detecting vibrations in the air and translating them into electrical signals that are sent to the brain.

How does hearing work?

Hearing works through a complex process involving the outer, middle, and inner ear. The outer ear collects sound waves and directs them to the middle ear, where they are amplified and transmitted to the inner ear. The inner ear then converts the sound waves into electrical signals that are sent to the brain via the auditory nerve.

Can hearing be affected by age?

Yes, as we age, our hearing ability may decline. This is due to damage to the hair cells in the inner ear, which are responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals. Exposure to loud noises, genetics, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to age-related hearing loss.

What are some common hearing problems?

Some common hearing problems include hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and ear infections. Other conditions such as Meniere's disease and acoustic neuroma can also affect hearing.

How can I protect my hearing?

To protect your hearing, it is important to avoid exposure to loud noises, wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments, and get regular check-ups with an audiologist. Additionally, refrain from inserting objects into your ear, as this can cause damage to the ear canal and eardrum.

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