The Ear and Hearing in the Aquatic and Dysbaric Environments
Abstract
A non-quantitative theory of human hearing is sketched for the case of the head immersed in water, based upon what is known of hearing in air and hearing by bone conduction. A consideration is given of four routes by which acoustic waterborne energy is transmitted to the fluids of the inner ear. Quantitative data are presented from recent studies of the thresholds of underwater auditory acuity, and of the relations between airborne and waterborne thresholds. Sound levels possibly hazardous to free swimmers are suggested and the intelligibility of speech passed through water is discussed. Studies on the ability of the human to localize sound water are discussed. The acute otorhinological problems of the outer, middle, and inner ear are discussed in both aquatic and dysbaric environments. A bibliography of 250 items is presented which constitutes a valuable reference tool.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 29, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0775680
Entities
People
- J. Donald Harris
Organizations
- Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory