Catching Sounds

a blue, black and white cube structure that has vinyl blue and white information panels from top to bottom with spaces in between. There are also different sound exibits hanging from orange cord from the cube structure.
a blue, black and white cube structure that has vinyl blue and white information panels from top to bottom with spaces in between. There are also different sound exibits hanging from orange cord from the cube structure.

Sound vibrations can be 'collected' and concentrated to make soft sounds louder.

How it works

Listen to ambient sounds through plastic funnels that channel sound waves to the ear.

Things to try or ask around the exhibit

Do some noises seem louder or softer than others?

Background

The funnel collects sound waves and concentrates them into your ear, making noises sound louder in volume.

Finding the science in your world

Some animals have large outer ears that improve their hearing, so they can escape from predators or find food.

In the past, hearing funnels were used by people with hearing disabilities and by courting couples who wanted to keep their conversations private!

On Display