Building Utilities

I. Acoustics

Acoustics is the science of production, control, transmission, reception and effects of sound. This
includes the generation and propagation of sound waves.

II. Origin

Acoustics originated c. 1600 from the Greek term akoustikos meaning “pertaining to hearing. It goes
back from the root words akoustos which means “being heard” or “audible”

III. Elements

Basic acoustics composes of four elements: Frequency, sound pressure, reverberation time and sound
absorption. Frequency refers to the number of waves that passes to a point in a certain time. It is measured
in the unit Hertz (Hz). The higher the hertz, the more waves per second and thus the sharper the sound.
Sound pressure relates to the loudness of sound. It is measured in decibels (dB) commonly stated on
speakers or generators. Reverberation time (also known as Reverb), refers to how much sound bounces
back. It is measured by the time between cutting off a sound source and the sound itself disappearing.
Sound absorption means taking away energy from the sound wave, in turn making the sound weaker. It is
accomplished through scattering the sound energy.

IV. Branches

Archaeoacoustics: study of sound in archaeology

Aeroacoustics: study of noise generated by air movement (e.g. turbulence) and the movement of sound
through fluid air

Architectural acoustics: science of achieving good sound in a building; involves study of speech
intelligibility, privacy and quality within the surrounding

Bioacoustics: study of hearing and calls of animals

Electroacoustics: recording, manipulation and reproduction of audio using electronics

Musical acoustics: study of physics of acoustic instrumentals; computer analysis of music and compostion

Psychoacoustics: study of how humans respond to sounds

Underwater acoustics: study of natural and man-made sounds underwater

V. Application

Music Instruments: generation of sound waves through vibration (e.g. strings)

Electronic Amplification: loudspeakers/amplifiers and microphones

Transportation: car mufflers, sonic boom, sonar and interior sound transmission

VI. Importance in Architecture and Humanity

Building acoustics are important in terms of design, operation and construction of most buildings. It can
have an impact on health, well-being, communication and productivity. Significant in spaces such as concert
halls, recording studios and theaters where quality of sound is very important.