Module 8 - Environmental Acoustics

Environmental Acoustics  ::  Environmental Noise  ::  Effects of Noise  :: Control of Noise

Environmental Noise

Noise in the environment is receiving more and more attention. Do you remember what it sounds like when you are up in the mountains, or out by yourself in the wilderness or park? Is it quiet? Probably not absolutely quiet, but compared to the noise in your city, or neighborhood, it is quiet. As we use modern technology and machines to make our life easier, we create noise.

In this chapter we will take a look at different sources of noise in the environment and how it is created. As you read this chapter, you may wish to think of innovative ways to reduce the noise generated my machines and other devices.

To successfully complete this chapter you should...

• Read chapter 30 in your text book (pages 537-614).
• Carefully study the important concepts about environmental noise.
• Be able to describe the different types of environmental noise.
• Be able to describe methods for reducing environmental noise.

Important Concepts

Accelerometer
Aerodynamic noise
Day-light level Ldn
Dipole source
Equivalent level Leq
Monopole source
Quadrupole source
Refraction