Why can we hear the sound of the ocean in some sea shells?

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SUMMARY

The phenomenon of hearing the sound of the ocean in sea shells is attributed to the natural acoustics of the shell rather than any electronic device. The sound is created by the shell amplifying ambient noise, which can include background sounds that mimic ocean waves. Personal experiences shared in the discussion highlight variations in sound perception based on environmental factors, such as the presence of a fan. The conversation emphasizes the intriguing interplay between natural acoustics and human perception.

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  • Understanding of acoustic principles
  • Familiarity with sound wave propagation
  • Basic knowledge of environmental noise factors
  • Awareness of human auditory perception
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  • Research the physics of sound wave propagation
  • Explore the concept of resonance in natural objects
  • Investigate the role of ambient noise in sound perception
  • Learn about the acoustics of different shell types
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Individuals interested in acoustics, educators teaching sound principles, and anyone curious about natural phenomena related to sound perception.

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How is it one can hear the sound of the ocean in some sea shells?
 
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It's because every sea shell contains a tiny radio with loudspeaker, tuned into the national seaside acoustics organisation's transmitter.
 
brewnog said:
It's because every sea shell contains a tiny radio with loudspeaker, tuned into the national seaside acoustics organisation's transmitter.

LOL,
Well there you have it! I didn't think actual nature had anything to do with it. I'm so happy I asked someone one smart... Realllllllly smart!~

However reading from the link matthyaouw offered, I tried holding my hands over my ear and did get such a sound but only on the side of the desk that has a fan. The other ear does not get the ocean (just gremlins) I guess my right ear is receiving transmission better right now.
What this does not explain is being in total quiet and hearing the sound loudly from a sea shell. Unless there are noises that have that rushing sound going on all the time and we just don't notice it.
Want more information please. This came up in a conversation because I got a sea shell many years ago as a girl on Valentines' Day. But now everyone in our home is watching this thread.
Thanks
 

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