GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Range of Hearing

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Waves Waves in air, fluids and solids

Range of Hearing

4:07 Sound Waves
Spec 4.6.1.4
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  • Parts of the ear vibrate at certain frequencies.
  • Sound travels as vibrations or waves in the air.
  • Vibrations make ear bones and nerves vibrate, sending signals to the brain.
  • Pitch of sound depends on frequency; high frequency equals high pitch.
  • High frequency sounds have short wavelengths.
  • Ear bones can't vibrate too quickly or slowly, affecting hearing.
  • Human hearing range: 20 hertz to 20 kilohertz.
  • Hearing range decreases with age due to ear component damage.
  • Young people can hear higher frequencies than older people.
  • High-pitched sounds can be used to deter teenagers; adults may not hear them.
  • Different animals have different hearing ranges.
  • Dogs: 50 hertz to 45 kilohertz, responsive to higher pitches.
  • Pigeons: 5 hertz to 10 kilohertz, hear lower pitches for storm detection.
  • Cows and elephants hear mostly low-pitched sounds.
  • Bats: 3 kilohertz to 120 kilohertz, use high frequencies for echolocation.
  • Dolphins and whales mainly hear high-pitched sounds.
  • Understanding why hearing ranges vary between species and individuals is important.

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