Kuulmispiiri

Kuulmispiiri refers to the range of sound frequencies that an organism, particularly humans, can perceive. This range is typically measured in Hertz (Hz), which represents the number of sound wave cycles per second. For young, healthy humans, the audible range generally extends from about 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (20 kHz).

Frequencies below 20 Hz are known as infrasound, and those above 20 kHz are called ultrasound. While humans cannot typically hear these frequencies, some animals, such as elephants and whales, can perceive infrasound, and dogs and bats can detect ultrasound.

The upper limit of the human kuulmispiiri tends to decrease with age, a phenomenon known as presbycusis. Exposure to loud noises, certain medical conditions, and some medications can also affect an individual's hearing range. Understanding the kuulmispiiri is important in fields such as audiology, acoustics, and music. It helps in diagnosing hearing loss, designing audio equipment, and studying animal communication. The specific shape and sensitivity within the audible range also vary, meaning we are more sensitive to certain frequencies than others, particularly in the speech range.