Hearing a Sound Wave: Does Intensity Matter?

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The ability to hear a sound wave is influenced primarily by its intensity, but frequency also plays a crucial role. Audibility is affected by the Fletcher-Munson curves, which illustrate that maximum sensitivity occurs around 3 kHz. At lower intensity levels, both low and high frequencies become less audible, impacting the overall sound quality. This explains why quiet music often lacks bass and treble. Understanding these factors is essential for optimizing sound perception.
Avaron Cooper
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Does the ability of an observer to hear a sound wave depends solely upon the intensity of the sound wave?
 
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I would say intensity is the largest factor, as long as the frequency is within hearing range.
 
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Drakkith said:
I would say intensity is the largest factor, as long as the frequency is within hearing range.
Audibility depends on the intensity but also very strongly on the frequency. There are some curves called the Fletcher-Munson audibility curves showing this. The maximum audibility is at something like 3 kHz. But the curves differ depending on intensity, so that at low listening levels the low and high frequencies fall off even more. That is why music lacks bass and treble if played quietly.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equal-loudness_contour
 
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