What is Infrasound

Infrasound refers to acoustic energy below 20 Hz, the lower threshold of human hearing. Unlike audible sound, infrasound propagates over vast distances with minimal attenuation and diffracts readily around obstacles. The first documented infrasonic event was the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa, which generated pressure waves that circumnavigated the globe seven times and were recorded on barometers worldwide. Retrospective analysis identified these waves as infrasonic (0.1–4 Hz), marking the beginning of systematic observation.

Infrasound has since become known for its long-distance property.  The song of a blue whale, for example, can be as low as 0.35 Hz, and can be heard nearly 4,000 miles away.  Infrasound passes through thick materials, such as earth and concrete, and diffracts easily around large obstacles.  Wherever you are now, you are likely exposed to infrasound coming from the nearest factory or high-rise building.

Modern research shows that infrasound exposure above a certain threshold can cause adverse health effects.  Exposure above 100dBz has been observed to cause symptoms of headaches, fatigue, increased anxiety, loss of balance, nausea, and impaired cardiac function.  Some specific frequencies have been observed to cause dread, depression, and even hallucinations, due to interactions with the human eye.  

If you have experienced strange symptoms in relation to particular location, it may be the result of infrasound.  If you believe you may be suffering from infrasound exposure, contact Boise Soundscaping for a complete acoustic analysis of your home.

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