äänitaajuuden
Äänitaajuus refers to the pitch of a sound, a perceptual property that allows the ordering of sounds on a frequency-related scale. It is the characteristic that is the "highness" or "lowness" of a sound. In acoustics, frequency is the objective physical measurement of how many times a sound wave vibrates per second. This is measured in Hertz (Hz), where 1 Hz equals one vibration per second. Human hearing typically ranges from about 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, though this range can vary with age and individual differences. Lower frequencies are perceived as low-pitched sounds, such as the rumble of thunder or a bass drum, while higher frequencies are perceived as high-pitched sounds, like a whistle or a soprano singer's highest notes. The concept of äänitaajuus is fundamental to understanding music, speech, and the physics of sound. Different instruments produce sounds with distinct äänitaajuus ranges and combinations of frequencies, known as harmonics, which contribute to their unique timbre. The study of äänitaajuus is crucial in fields like acoustics, audiology, music theory, and telecommunications.