If a tree falls in a forest does anybody really notice unless they hear about it?

Answer 1

This is more a question of semantics on the word "sound". The question is if there is no one to hear the "sound" is there a sound.

According to the dictionary, there are several definitions of sound:
1) Vibrations transmitted through an elastic solid or a liquid or gas, with frequencies in the approximate range of 20 to 20,000 hertz, capable of being detected by human organs of hearing.
2) Transmitted vibrations of any frequency.
3) The sensation stimulated in the organs of hearing by such vibrations in the air or other medium.

If you go by definition #3, then there is no sound. If you go by #1, I guess you'd have to qualify what was meant "capable of being detected by human organs of hearing"... the frequency is in the right range, but is it a sound if it is able to be detected, but isn't? Definition #2 covers the case for ultrasonic and subsonic "sounds". We can't hear these "sounds" but animals or instruments might.

Anyway, does a tree failing generate vibrations in the 20Hz to 20,000Hz range? Yes. Is this sound? You figure out the definition you want to go by and decide for yourself.

Answer 2

The question actually goes more like.. "If a tree falls in a forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?" And the answer is Yes... a tree falling would cause vibrations that would bounce off of other things, causing noise no matter who was there to hear it! :)

Answer 3

Einstein said that it indeed makes a noise and it makes a difference, at least in the forest. The rest is up to you.

Answer 4

Hypothetically, a person sitting under the tree will notice even if she is wearing earplugs.

Answer 5

G'day Dv8,

Thanks for your question.

Probably not. However, many of the creatures in the surrounding forest are aware of the fact.

Regards

Answer 6

no one took notice

Answer 7

you have asked the question completely wrong