Visualizing audible frequencies

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In summary, while the human ear is capable of hearing frequencies in the range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, the human eye is not capable of seeing audible frequencies. Light waves, which the eye detects, have wavelengths in the range of 400 to 700 nm, which is much higher than the audible range. Additionally, light waves and sound waves have different fundamental natures, with light being electrical vibrations and sound being mechanical vibrations. Our brains are designed to process these different types of impulses from the ear and eye.
  • #1
subteranneous
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Is it possible?

It is said that the human being can hear from a dynamic range of 20 hz to 20,000 hz. Apparently, the human eye is not able to detect audible frequencies.

I have a question though...

Can we see audible frequencies? Our are eyes capable of catching them?

If a drop of water comes into contact with the bottom of a glass and I'm able to hear the drops of water through a pattern (periodic vibration) aren't I capable of seeing audible frequencies?

I'm confused, someone help me please.
 
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  • #2
The eye detects light (electromagnetic waves) with wavelengths approximately from 400 to 700 nm. This corresponds to frequencies from [itex]4.3 \times 10^{14}[/itex] to [itex]7.5 \times 10^{14}[/itex] Hz. This is very very very far from the audible range.

Besides, light waves (waves of electric and magnetic fields) and sound waves (waves of spatial vibrations of air molecules) are completely different in their fundamental nature. Even if you had electromagnetic waves in the range of 20-20000 Hz (which wouldn't be light, but very low frequency radio waves), you wouldn't be able to hear them.
 
  • #3
the medium that supports sound and light are different. Light consists of electrical vibrations, while sounds are mechanical: it is air, or a material that vibrates. our brain is made to transform mechanical impulses of the ear and electrical impulses of the eye
 

1. What is the purpose of visualizing audible frequencies?

The purpose of visualizing audible frequencies is to represent sound waves in a visual form, making it easier to analyze and understand the characteristics of the sound. This can be helpful in various fields such as music production, acoustic engineering, and hearing research.

2. How are audible frequencies visualized?

Audible frequencies are typically visualized using a spectrogram, which is a visual representation of the spectrum of frequencies present in a sound wave over time. This is done by plotting the frequency on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal axis, with different colors or shades representing the intensity of each frequency.

3. What information can be extracted from visualizing audible frequencies?

By visualizing audible frequencies, one can extract information about the pitch, loudness, duration, and timbre of a sound. It can also reveal any changes or patterns in the sound over time, such as frequency modulation or harmonics.

4. Can visualizing audible frequencies be used for scientific research?

Yes, visualizing audible frequencies is commonly used in scientific research, particularly in the fields of acoustics and audiology. It can provide valuable insights into the characteristics of sound and how it affects our perception and environment.

5. Are there any limitations to visualizing audible frequencies?

While visualizing audible frequencies can provide useful information, it is important to note that it is a simplified representation of sound and may not capture all of its complexities. Additionally, the interpretation of the visualizations may be subjective and dependent on the individual's perception.

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