infrasound

n. sound whose frequency is too low to be detected by human hearing, generally encompassing the range of 20 Hz to .001 Hz. The scientific study of infrasound is known as infrasonics. Able to cover long distances and circumvent or penetrate obstacles without dispersing, infrasonic waves are used by many nonhuman animals to communicate (see infrasonic communication) and have a variety of applications in geological monitoring (e.g., prediction of volcanic eruptions, detection of earthquakes). Compare ultrasound.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

convergent evolution

the tendency of unrelated organisms in a particular environment to evolve superficially similar body structures that enable them to adapt effectively to their habitat. Thus, many aquatic animals acquire a streamlined form and smooth surfaces for rapid movement through water. See also homoplasy. Compare divergent evolution.