Britannica AI Icon

Quick Summary

An audiogram is a graphic representation that illustrates the relationship between the frequency of sound vibrations and the minimum sound intensity required for hearing. This tool is crucial in audiology for assessing an individual's hearing capabilities.12

The process of hearing involves the ear converting sound waves into nerve impulses that the brain interprets. An audiogram specifically maps out the softest sounds a person can hear at various pitches (frequencies), typically ranging from 125 to 8,000 hertz. The results are plotted on a graph, with frequency on the horizontal axis and intensity (measured in decibels) on the vertical axis. This visual representation helps audiologists identify the type and degree of hearing loss, which is essential for diagnosis and treatment planning.2

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
2 Britannica Sources
  1. audiogram
  2. human ear - Audiometry

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.