mürasummutus

Mürasummutus, also known as noise cancellation or noise reduction, is a technology used to reduce unwanted ambient sound. It works by creating an "anti-noise" sound wave that is the inverse of the original noise. When these two waves meet, they cancel each other out, resulting in a quieter environment. There are two primary types of noise cancellation: active and passive.

Passive noise cancellation relies on physical barriers to block sound. This is achieved through the design and materials of headphones, earplugs, or the construction of buildings. Thicker, denser materials are more effective at absorbing or reflecting sound waves, thus reducing the amount of noise that reaches the listener. The seal of headphones around the ear also contributes to passive noise cancellation.

Active noise cancellation, on the other hand, uses electronic components to generate the anti-noise signal. Microphones on the device detect ambient noise, and then an electronic circuit processes this sound to create an opposite sound wave. This anti-noise is then played through speakers, ideally at the same time and intensity as the original noise, but out of phase. This technology is commonly found in headphones, earbuds, and some vehicles. While highly effective for constant, low-frequency sounds like engine hum or air conditioning, active noise cancellation is less adept at blocking sudden, sharp noises or voices.