Ultrasound refers to sound waves with frequencies higher than the upper limit of the human audible range, typically above 20,000 hertz (Hz). It is widely used in medical imaging, industrial applications, and scientific research due to its ability to penetrate materials and produce detailed images.
The audible frequency range for humans typically ranges from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Sounds within this range can be detected by the human ear. Frequencies below this range are called infrasonic, while frequencies above this range are classified as ultrasonic or ultrasound.
Infrasonic refers to sound waves with frequencies below the lower limit of human audibility, typically below 20 Hz. Although humans cannot hear infrasonic sounds, some animals, such as elephants and whales, are sensitive to these low-frequency waves and use them for communication and navigation.
| Species | Lower Limit of Audible Frequency (Hz) | Upper Limit of Audible Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| Humans | 20 | 20,000 |
| Dogs | 40 | 60,000 |
| Cats | 48 | 85,000 |
| Bats | 1,000 | 150,000 |
| Dolphins | 7,000 | 160,000 |
| Elephants | 14 | 12,000 |
| Whales (Blue Whale) | 10 | 20,000 |
Ultrasound techniques find diverse applications in both industry and medicine, harnessing the properties of high-frequency sound waves for various purposes.
In the industry, ultrasound is utilized for cleaning delicate or intricate components by generating tiny bubbles that collapse and create pressure waves, effectively removing contaminants without causing damage.
In industrial quality control, ultrasound is employed to detect defects or flaws in materials by analyzing the response of sound waves when passing through the materials, ensuring product integrity and safety.
Derived from “Sound Navigation and Ranging,” SONAR utilizes ultrasound waves in marine and underwater applications for navigation, underwater mapping, and locating objects like submarines and underwater structures.
In medicine, echocardiography uses ultrasound to create real-time images of the heart’s structure and function, aiding in diagnosing heart conditions and monitoring cardiac health.
Ultrasonography, commonly known as ultrasound, is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal body structures in real-time. It is widely used for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions, including pregnancy, abdominal and pelvic disorders, and vascular diseases. The procedure involves the use of a handheld device called a transducer, which emits and receives sound waves to create detailed images of organs, tissues, and blood flow without the need for ionizing radiation.
