Question:
What is the audible range of sound for the average human ear?
(A) 20 Hz to 20 kHz
(B) 0 Hz to 20 Hz
(C) 20 kHz to 50 kHz
(D) 50 kHz to 1 MHz
Answer : (A) 20 Hz to 20 kHz
The audible range of sound for the average, healthy human ear is from 20 Hertz (Hz) to 20 kilohertz (kHz).
Understanding the Audible Range
This range refers to the frequency of sound waves, which we perceive as pitch.1
- Frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz), where 1 Hz is one cycle or vibration per second.2
- 20 Hz represents the lowest-pitched sound we can hear, like a deep rumble. Frequencies below this are called infrasound.
- 20 kHz (or 20,000 Hz) is the highest-pitched sound we can typically hear, like a high-pitched hiss. Frequencies above this are called ultrasound.
It’s important to note that this range is an ideal average. The ability to hear very high frequencies, in particular, tends to decrease with age in a process known as presbycusis.3 👂