You probably know that the sound you hear is the result of sound waves. But what are sound waves, exactly? What are their characteristics? And how do they work? Here’s everything you need to know. Wavelength: The most important characteristic of sound waves may be the wavelength. Sound consists of a longitudinal wave that includes compressions and rarefactions as they travel through a given medium. The distance that one wave travels . . .

Traffic noise, especially car noise, can be some of the worst kind of noise pollution. The loudest cars are usually the oldest ones. Internal combustion engines make a lot of noise, and not only are older cars less likely to have measures in place to dampen noise, but they’re also more likely to have loose or worn-out parts under the hood rattling around and creating even more noise pollution. It . . .

So you’ve soundproofed the wall leading from your apartment to the apartment next door, but somehow there’s still noise coming from that direction, although you can’t pinpoint exactly where it’s coming from. If this describes you, you may be the victim of flanking noise. But what is flanking noise, and what can you do about it? What Is Flanking Noise? Flanking noise, also called “flanking transmission,” refers to noise entering . . .

Why do music and shopping go together? If you’re a retailer who occasionally or frequently plays music in your store, you probably already have a good idea how noise affects your shopping experience. The research is clear: Music makes shoppers feel good. Even bad music, as long as it is at a pleasing volume and pitch, can have a positive effect. Studies show that shoppers who listen to music are . . .

Are you getting enough healthy sleep? Is loud noise during sleep getting in the way? Proper rest is an essential part of good health, and it is imperative that you understand the relationship between sleep and sound. Here are some facts that can help you understand how sound impacts your sleep cycle and ideas on what you can do about sleep and noise pollution effects. How Does Sound Affect Your Sleep? . . .