In our environment, sound is everywhere. Different sounds can be classified based on their characteristics, and interestingly, we can associate colors with sounds, such as white noise and pink noise.
I. Why Does Sound Have Color?
When measuring sound waves, we use two main indicators: frequency and intensity.
Frequency refers to how many times a sound wave vibrates per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
Intensity refers to the size of the sound wave’s amplitude, measured in decibels (dB).
Sounds of varying frequencies and amplitudes produce different auditory effects. The larger the amplitude, the louder the sound; the higher the frequency, the higher the pitch.
Just as light of different wavelengths is identified by our eyes as different colors, people also use colors to name different sounds.
All human-visible light combined forms white light. Similarly, when all audible sound frequencies are mixed together in equal amplitude and random order, it's called white noise.
II. Pink Noise vs White Noise: What's the Difference?
You may also have heard of pink noise. The difference between pink noise and white noise is that, with pink noise, the amplitude decreases by half with every doubling of frequency.
This means pink noise consists of louder low-frequency sounds and softer high-frequency sounds mixed together.
Conversely, white noise contains sounds of all frequencies, with the intensity of sound being almost the same across frequencies, thus sounding much like the constant static noise when a TV has no signal.
White noise is akin to the sound of rain or waterfalls in nature; pink noise is comparable to the subtle sound of ocean waves or the rustling of leaves in the wind.
III. Pink Noise vs White Noise: Which is More Suitable for Sleep?
So, which is more suitable for sleep: pink noise or white noise?
Pink noise, with its prominence at lower frequencies, feels warmer and more soothing, aiding in relaxation and deep sleep.
Research indicates that pink noise reduces brainwave activity. As you prepare to sleep, particularly in the early stages of the sleep cycle, your brain becomes less active. Pink noise can facilitate this process, helping to shorten the time it takes to fall asleep.
On the other hand, white noise could be too sharp or piercing for some due to its evenly distributed high-frequency components, but it remains a good choice for masking environmental noise.
Find the right sound to improve your sleep quality. Try playing pink noise before bed to see if it helps you fall asleep faster, or listen to white noise during the day to see if it aids in concentration. You can always find the right sound for you.
IV. What Happens if You Listen to Pink Noise for 10 Hours Straight?
Listening to pink noise continuously for 10 hours may produce some effects, though these depend on various factors like volume level, personal sensitivity, and environment.
If you plan to play pink noise for 10 hours a day, remember to keep the volume below 80 dB.
Listening to pink noise excessively might cause your ears to become accustomed to the sound, potentially making it harder to sleep without it after a while.
There is relatively less research on the long-term effects of pink noise, and it is not yet clear if listening to pink noise for extended periods has any adverse effects. But as long as you keep the volume at a comfortable level, there's no need to worry excessively.
The same goes for prolonged exposure to white noise.
V. How to Obtain Pink Noise vs White Noise
Nowadays, obtaining pink noise or white noise is very convenient. Here are some ways:
Mobile Apps or Online Players:
You can find pre-recorded noises on various online platforms and apps, many of which allow customization according to personal preference.
Video Platforms:
Many videos of white and pink noise can be found on platforms like YouTube for direct playback.
Sound Machines:
Specialized sleep sound machines or noise machines are available for purchase, which can be set with different types of noises, including white noise and pink noise.
VI. Final Thoughts
White noise vs pink noise–which sound is more suitable for you to fall asleep to depends entirely on your personal feelings. Try both and eventually, you'll find the “color” that suits you best.
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