Infrasound

Definition

Infrasound refers to sound waves that are below the frequency of 20 Hz, which is below the lower limit of human hearing. These low-frequency sounds can be produced by natural events like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, as well as man-made sources such as explosions or large machinery. In horror and suspense narratives, infrasound can create a sense of unease and tension, often enhancing the emotional impact of scenes by tapping into primal fears and subconscious reactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Infrasound is often associated with feelings of anxiety and fear, making it a powerful tool in horror films to manipulate audience emotions.
2. Research has shown that exposure to infrasound can induce physiological responses such as increased heart rate and feelings of unease, amplifying the overall tension in a scene.
3. Natural phenomena like thunderstorms and avalanches can generate infrasound, which filmmakers sometimes replicate to enhance realism and immersion.
4. Some horror directors intentionally incorporate infrasound into their sound design to create an unsettling atmosphere without the audience consciously realizing it.
5. The use of infrasound is not limited to sound effects; it can also influence visual storytelling by altering viewers' perception of a scene's mood or intensity.

Review Questions

• How does infrasound contribute to the emotional impact of horror films?
  • Infrasound contributes to the emotional impact of horror films by tapping into primal fears and eliciting subconscious reactions. When audiences experience low-frequency sounds that are typically below their hearing threshold, it can induce feelings of anxiety and discomfort without them being fully aware of why. This added layer of tension enhances the overall atmosphere of fear, making the viewing experience more intense.
• Discuss the physiological effects of infrasound on viewers and how these effects can be leveraged in suspenseful storytelling.
  • Infrasound has been shown to affect viewers physiologically by increasing heart rate and inducing feelings of unease. Filmmakers can leverage these effects by incorporating infrasound into key moments to heighten suspense or dread. For instance, during a tense build-up in a horror film, the subtle inclusion of low-frequency sounds can amplify viewers' anticipation and emotional responses, making them more susceptible to jump scares or shocking reveals.
• Evaluate the ethical considerations filmmakers should take into account when using infrasound in horror narratives.
  • Filmmakers should consider the ethical implications of using infrasound due to its ability to provoke strong emotional reactions that some viewers may find distressing. While it can enhance storytelling, it's essential to strike a balance between creating a thrilling experience and potentially causing discomfort or anxiety. Directors must remain aware of their audience's mental health and emotional well-being, ensuring that their use of such techniques serves the narrative purpose without crossing lines into psychological manipulation or harm.

Related terms

Frightening Auditory Cues: Sound elements that evoke fear or tension, often used in horror films to enhance the atmosphere and emotional response of the audience.

Psychoacoustics: The study of how humans perceive sound and how it can influence emotions and behaviors, particularly relevant in horror for crafting effective audio experiences.

Dissonance: A lack of harmony among musical notes, which can create feelings of tension or anxiety, commonly used in horror to evoke discomfort.