What is Noise?

Noise, by definition, is unwanted sound. What is pleasant to some ears may be extremely unpleasant to others, depending on a number of factors.

The natural environment contains many sources of noise - wind, volcanoes, oceans, and animal sounds are all familiar intrusions accepted at various levels.

Man-made noises - such as those from machines, automobiles, trains, planes, explosives and firecrackers are more contentious.

Both kinds of noise affect sleep, hearing and communication as well as mental and physical health.