Loren Booda
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Does the decrease in atmospheric pressure with increasing altitude affect frequency of sound, such as that of a mountaineer's voice?
The discussion confirms that altitude affects the pitch of the human voice due to changes in atmospheric pressure and air density. While the frequency of sound is primarily determined by the length of the vocal cords, thinner air at higher altitudes absorbs sound energy, impacting how voices propagate. This phenomenon is similar to the effect of inhaling helium, which alters the density of the medium and affects vocal cord vibrations. Understanding these factors is crucial for mountaineers and others operating at high altitudes.
PREREQUISITESVocal coaches, mountaineers, acoustics researchers, and anyone interested in the effects of altitude on human voice and sound propagation.