If a tree falls in a forest where a tape recorder is recording does the falling tree make a sound?

Answer 1

That depends...if you define sound as the sensation we sense when compressive waves of air hit our ear drums; then no. There is no one there to hear those waves...the possible sound...when the tree falls.

If you define sound simply as a band of frequencies of those compressive waves of air that could be heard if someone were there to hear them in real time or later via the recording, then yes.

The Merriam Webster On Line dictionary defines sound (the noun) as:

1 a : a particular auditory impression : TONE b : the sensation perceived by the sense of hearing c : mechanical radiant energy that is transmitted by longitudinal pressure waves in a material medium (as air) and is the objective cause of hearing

So, as you can see, the compressive (longitudinal) waves have to be heard or sensed as an auditory impression. Thus, a tape recorder, which does not hear (it records) is not sufficient for the compressive waves of air to be called sound when the tree falls. However, later, when the tape is played for someone or something to hear it, those recorded waves can be called sound.

Answer 2

First you may want to be asking is the tree truly there. Am i really right here. Is sound only a figment of my personal tortured international. Am I typing to an existence it really is actual or in my options. If each thing is actual and by no skill merely your options arising it than...for sure the tree makes a valid. If each thing is created by technique of your options than... That tree might want to become a butterfly because it falls. Or it can make a valid ...it truly is as a lot as you:) yet i love TallGreen extraterrestrial beings answer more effective efficient!

Answer 3

Given that you have placed this question into the 'physics' section, then the answer is - yes! This would be the case regardless of whether there is a tape recorder available or not (do people still use tape recorders??).

Had you placed your question into the 'philosophy' section, then that would have stimulated a whole different discussion!! :-)

Answer 4

Only if it falls on the tape recorder.

Answer 5

Not if it knows about the tape recorder...

Answer 6

the crashing trees would destroy the tape recorder.

Answer 7

a falling tree in a forest always makes a sound because there is always something there to observe it, plant ,animal, insect, ect.

Answer 8

...or is it the tape in the recorder making the sound...

Answer 9

Yes sound waves travel regardless of who or what is there to here them.

Answer 10

ya

even if no one is there to hear it