- Sound is a pressure wave that travels through air or other media and can be detected by the human ear. Noise refers to unwanted sound. Acoustics is the science of sound, including its production, transmission, and effects.
- The human ear detects sound waves that cause the eardrum and tiny bones to vibrate, translating sound into nerve impulses that the brain interprets as sound. Three parts - outer, middle, and inner ear - work together to receive and process sound.
- Noise above certain levels can negatively impact human health and activities. Sources of environmental noise include transportation, construction, and industrial activities. Proper building acoustics aim to control noise transmission and optimize sound quality