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Video: Understanding sound

This programme looks at the various ways of subduing noise in buildings. It explains the scientific foundations of sound, addressing loudness, frequency, amplitude, pitch and reverberation. The effect of distance upon loudness is examined and the workings of logarithms explained, allowing the decibel (a logarithmic unit) to be understood. The different types of sound transmission (impact noise, flanking and airborne transmission) are addressed, and appropriate responses to minimise noise discussed. The difference between sound absorption and sound insulation is highlighted, and some of the conflicting consequences of sound minimization are outlined.