Why do lower frequencies travel farther than higher frequencies?

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In summary, the frequency of sound waves is affected by distance from the source. The farther you are, the lower the frequency and softer the sound. This is due to the power of the sound waves decreasing with distance. The Doppler effect does not apply to a static pair of headphones.
  • #1
azaharak
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When you try to listen to music through headphones you can reasonably hear the low end (lower frequencies). When you take the headphones off of your head and place them far enough away you only hear a tinny sound.

When you are outside of a loud rock concert, maybe 1500ft from the source, you tend to only hear the lower end sound.

---- Why is this so.


Here is my understanding, please fill in if I'm wrong.

The lower end (longer wavelength) is less easily absorbed in mediums?

The lower end from the headphones only really occurs because your headphones are in contact with your ear allowing the vibrations to transmit better?

The higher frequencies tend to scatter more of small objects over longer distances?

Power is a function of frequency, the higher frequencies deliver more power?


Thank you!
 
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  • #2
azaharak said:
When you try to listen to music through headphones you can reasonably hear the low end (lower frequencies). When you take the headphones off of your head and place them far enough away you only hear a tinny sound.

When you are outside of a loud rock concert, maybe 1500ft from the source, you tend to only hear the lower end sound.

---- Why is this so.

FREQUENCY of SOUND WAVES
The farther you are from the source the lesser the frequency of sound waves your ears absorb,so the lower/softer the sound as perceived by the ears. On the other hand, the nearer you are from the source, the greater the frequency, the more sound waves our ears absorb; that also means the louder it is as perceived by our ears..

Read something also about Doppler effect. That could somehow help. :))
 
  • #3
OMG you are completely wrong...


Please do not comment if you have no clue what your talking about.

The doppler effect only affects the frequency perceived for a moving source or a moving listener. It has nothing to do with a static pair of headphones.


Your claims are completely wrong. The frequency of the source is not a function of distance!.

The amplitude will change, since the power falls off along the lines of inverse square law. The frequency remains constant.

Thats like saying the light bulb color changes the farther you move away from it!

It will change if your in motion (very slightly due to the doppler effect in light)
 

FAQ: Why do lower frequencies travel farther than higher frequencies?

1. What is the difference between low end and high end in sound?

The low end of sound refers to bass frequencies, typically between 20-200 Hz, while the high end refers to treble frequencies, typically between 2,000-20,000 Hz. In simpler terms, low end is the lower, deeper tones in music, while high end is the higher, sharper tones.

2. Why is it important to have a good balance of low end and high end in sound?

A good balance of low end and high end is important because it creates a full and dynamic sound. Without enough low end, the sound can feel thin and lacking in depth. Without enough high end, the sound can feel dull and lacking in clarity. A good balance creates a more enjoyable listening experience.

3. How can I adjust the low end and high end in my sound?

To adjust the low end and high end in your sound, you can use an equalizer (EQ). An EQ allows you to boost or cut specific frequency ranges, including the low and high end. You can also adjust the low end and high end by using different types of audio equipment, such as subwoofers for low end and tweeters for high end.

4. How does the environment affect the perception of low end and high end in sound?

The environment can greatly impact the perception of low end and high end in sound. In a small, enclosed space, low end frequencies can often sound louder and more overwhelming. In a large, open space, high end frequencies can be more easily absorbed and therefore sound quieter. It's important to consider the environment when adjusting the low end and high end in sound.

5. Can too much low end or high end be damaging to our ears?

Yes, too much low end or high end can potentially be damaging to our ears. Low end frequencies that are too loud can cause fatigue and discomfort, while high end frequencies that are too loud can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. It's important to listen to sound at safe levels and take breaks when necessary.

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