Sonic Sound Defined: Understanding Audible Sound Range

Sound travels in waves, and the characteristics of these waves determine whether we can hear them. The range of sound frequencies that the human ear can detect is called the audible range. Sounds outside this range are generally not perceived by humans.

Types of Sound Based on Frequency

Sound waves are classified based on their frequency, particularly in relation to the human hearing capability:

• Subsonic Sound: These are sound waves with frequencies below the lower limit of human hearing. Typically, this is considered to be below 20 Hertz (Hz). Humans cannot hear these sounds.
• Audible Sound (Sonic Sound): This refers to sound waves with frequencies that fall within the range humans can hear. The generally accepted range for human hearing is from about 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (or 20 kHz). Sound within this range is often called sonic sound.
• Ultrasonic Sound: These are sound waves with frequencies above the upper limit of human hearing. This is typically considered to be above 20,000 Hz (or 20 kHz). Humans cannot hear these sounds, although some animals, like bats and dogs, can.

Frequency Ranges of Sound

The different types of sound and their approximate frequency ranges are summarized below:

Conclusion on Audible Range Sound

Based on these definitions, the sound that falls within the audible range is specifically referred to as sonic sound. This is the category of sound frequencies that humans are capable of hearing.