Sensory Neuroscience: Hearing and speech/Sound/key terms

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Parameters for describing sound[edit | edit source]

Wavelength
the distance between the endpoints of a cycle (two peaks, for example)
usually measured in cm
Frequency
number of oscillations in one second
frequency is a physical property in the world, but pitch is the mental experience of that property (the "highness" of a sound)
usually measured in Hz
Period
time required for one oscillation
usually measured in ms


Amplitude
the magnitude of change in the pressure over one oscillation
Impedence
the reluctance with which the medium can be forced into oscillation