Noise

Noise refers to unwanted sound,^[1] typically perceived by the ears. It can cause damage to hearing.^[2] In physical acoustics, noise often results from irregular or unwanted vibrations transmitted through a medium.^[3] Prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing loss, a condition called deafness. The level of noise is measured in decibels (dB), and sounds above 85 dB can be harmful over time.^[4]

Frequency spectrum of environmental noise recorded on a busy street in Vienna

Example of gaussian white noise

Earplugs are used to protect the ears from loud sounds

Noise can also describe data, such as white noise, which lacks meaningful information. Loudspeaker tests often use white noise to assess the frequency response of speakers.^[5] In mathematics, noise can also refer to random data, which is often generated without a specific pattern or predictable sequence. This type of noise is useful in fields like cryptography and simulation.^[6][7][8]

In electronics, heat causes noise in resistors,^[9][10] with the amount varying depending on the type of resistor. This is known as thermal noise or Johnson-Nyquist noise.^[11] Most audio devices are designed to minimize noise production by using components that reduce unwanted signals,^[12][13] ensuring a clearer sound.

Another type of noise, called background noise, refers to environmental sounds that are not part of the main sound being observed.^[14][15] This can include sounds like traffic, people talking, or machines operating. In some situations, background noise can be helpful, such as in white noise machines used to aid sleep.^[16]

Related pages

• Noise (electronics)
• Earplug