Infrasonic – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Audio Terms Glossary

What is Infrasonic?

Infrasonic refers to sound waves that have frequencies below the range of human hearing, typically below 20 Hz. These low-frequency sound waves are often produced by natural phenomena such as earthquakes, thunderstorms, and ocean waves, as well as man-made sources like machinery, explosions, and aircraft. Infrasound can travel long distances and penetrate through obstacles such as buildings and mountains, making it a powerful tool for communication and detection.

How is Infrasonic produced?

Infrasound can be produced by a variety of natural and man-made sources. Natural sources of infrasound include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, thunderstorms, and ocean waves. These events generate low-frequency sound waves that can travel long distances through the atmosphere. Man-made sources of infrasound include explosions, machinery, aircraft, and other industrial activities. These sources can produce infrasound through vibrations and air pressure fluctuations.

Where is Infrasonic used?

Infrasound has a wide range of applications in various fields. In the military, infrasound can be used for long-range communication and detection of enemy activities. In the scientific community, infrasound is used to study natural phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and meteorite impacts. In the music industry, infrasound can be used to create deep bass tones that are felt rather than heard. Infrasound is also used in medical imaging techniques such as ultrasound and in the study of animal communication.

What are the effects of Infrasonic on humans?

Infrasound can have a range of effects on humans, depending on the intensity and duration of exposure. At low levels, infrasound may cause feelings of unease, anxiety, and discomfort. Prolonged exposure to high levels of infrasound can lead to symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. In extreme cases, infrasound exposure can cause damage to the inner ear and other organs, leading to hearing loss and other health problems. It is important to limit exposure to infrasound and take appropriate safety precautions when working in environments with high levels of low-frequency sound waves.

How is Infrasonic measured?

Infrasound is typically measured using specialized equipment called infrasound sensors or microphones. These sensors are designed to detect sound waves with frequencies below the range of human hearing. Infrasound sensors can be placed in various locations to monitor low-frequency sound waves generated by natural and man-made sources. The data collected by these sensors can be analyzed to determine the intensity, frequency, and direction of infrasound waves. Infrasound measurements are often used in scientific research, environmental monitoring, and industrial applications to study the effects of low-frequency sound waves on humans and the environment.

What are some examples of Infrasonic sources?

Some common examples of infrasound sources include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, thunderstorms, ocean waves, explosions, machinery, aircraft, and industrial activities. Earthquakes generate infrasound waves as they release energy along fault lines, causing vibrations in the Earth’s crust. Volcanic eruptions produce infrasound waves as hot gases and ash are expelled from the volcano, creating pressure fluctuations in the atmosphere. Thunderstorms generate infrasound waves as lightning strikes and thunderclaps create shockwaves in the air. Ocean waves produce infrasound waves as they crash against the shore, generating low-frequency sound waves that can travel long distances through the water and air. Explosions, machinery, aircraft, and other industrial activities can also produce infrasound waves through vibrations and air pressure fluctuations. These sources of infrasound can have a range of effects on humans and the environment, making it important to monitor and control exposure to low-frequency sound waves.