infraääneltä

Infrasound refers to sound waves with frequencies below the lower limit of human audibility, which is typically considered to be 20 Hertz (Hz). While humans cannot consciously hear infrasound, it can be perceived through other means, such as vibrations. Animals, particularly those with larger bodies or different auditory structures, are often able to detect and utilize infrasound for communication, navigation, and sensing environmental changes. For instance, elephants are known to communicate over long distances using infrasonic calls.

The sources of infrasound are diverse, encompassing both natural phenomena and human-made activities. Natural sources include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, severe weather events like thunderstorms and hurricanes, and even ocean waves. Avalanches and rockfalls also generate infrasound. Human-made sources include industrial machinery, wind turbines, large vehicles such as trucks and airplanes, and explosions. Studying infrasound can provide valuable information about these sources and their associated phenomena. For example, monitoring infrasonic signals can aid in earthquake prediction and volcanic activity assessment. It also plays a role in understanding the impact of noise pollution from large infrastructure projects. The detection and analysis of infrasound require specialized equipment capable of capturing these very low-frequency sound waves.