The normal range of ultrasound frequencies is defined as any sound frequency above 20,000 Hz (or 20 kHz). This is above the limit of what humans can typically hear.
Understanding Ultrasound Frequencies
Ultrasound operates at frequencies well beyond the range of human hearing. Here's a breakdown:
- Audible Sound: Humans typically hear sounds between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz (20 kHz).
- Ultrasound: Any sound with a frequency higher than 20,000 Hz is considered ultrasound. The reference material specifies that frequencies can reach beyond a gigahertz.
Practical Uses of Ultrasound
Ultrasound technology is widely used in various fields:
- Medical Imaging: Uses frequencies ranging from 2 to 18 MHz. This allows doctors to view internal organs, monitor pregnancies, and diagnose various conditions.
- Industrial Applications: Includes non-destructive testing and cleaning procedures, utilizing different ultrasound ranges as needed.
- Animal Communication: Some animals, like bats and dolphins, use ultrasound for navigation and communication.
- Therapeutic Applications: For treatment of medical conditions, frequencies are typically between 0.75 to 3 MHz
Range Summary
| Category | Frequency Range |
|---|---|
| Audible Sound | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz (20 kHz) |
| Ultrasound | Above 20,000 Hz (20 kHz), potentially reaching over 1 GHz |
In short, if a sound wave is higher than 20 kHz it's considered to be in the ultrasound range.
