What is infrasound, or low frequency sound?

Low frequency sound, sometimes called infrasound, is sound with a frequency below the lower limit of human hearing, which is typically around 20 Hz. Although we cannot hear infrasound, it can still have physical effects on the body, including dizziness, nausea, feelings of discomfort, fear, and changes in heart rate, however more research is needed to confirm these effects. It has been hard and very expensive to measure infrasound reliably, which has made it difficult to research. This has changed now, with product offerings like our low frequency sound level sensors.

What produces infrasound and what are it’s properties?

Infrasound can be produced by natural sources such as thunderstorms, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, as well as by man-made sources such as ventilation systems and industrial machinery. It has also been suggested that infrasound may be responsible for people’s experiences of “hauntings” and other “supernatural phenomena” because of infrasound’s effects on the body, although there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Infrasound can travel long distances and can penetrate solid objects, making it difficult to detect and measure, in order to locate the source.

Low frequency sounds may cause hearing loss

Human beings are normally able to detect sounds in the range of 20-20,000 Hz and it is well known that sounds within this range can damage the hearing. However, sounds under the frequency of 20 Hz can also affect the ear even though some are unable to hear them.

How can i measure infrasound?

We offer low frequency sound level meters, allowing you to measure the sound level at frequencies as low as 0.1Hz. Visit our store for our selection of low cost low frequency, infrasound sound level meters.