äänienkestokynnyksen

Äänienkestokynnys, also known as the hearing threshold or absolute threshold of hearing, refers to the minimum sound intensity at which a sound becomes audible to the human ear. It is typically measured in decibels (dB) and represents the lowest level of sound pressure that can be detected by a listener 50% of the time under specific listening conditions. This threshold is not static and can vary between individuals, depending on factors such as age, exposure to noise, and underlying medical conditions.

The standard reference point for the threshold of hearing is often set at 0 dB HL (hearing level), which corresponds to a sound pressure level of 20 micropascals (µPa). This level is considered the average hearing threshold for young, healthy adults in a quiet environment. Sounds below this threshold are generally inaudible. Conversely, sound levels significantly above this threshold can cause discomfort or even damage to the auditory system.

Audiologists use specialized equipment, such as audiometers, to measure an individual's hearing threshold across different frequencies. This process, known as pure-tone audiometry, helps diagnose hearing loss and determine its severity and type. Understanding the äänienkestokynnys is crucial for assessing hearing health and for designing and implementing effective hearing protection strategies in noisy environments.