Our eyes respond to electromagnetic waves of frequency ranging from 400 THz to 790 THz. Our eyes are not built to respond to sound which is a mechanical wave. Does this mean that there could be some other animals who could respond to mechanical waves and thus see sound?
Our eyes respond to electromagnetic waves of frequency ranging from 400 THz to 790 THz. Our eyes are not built to respond to sound which is a mechanical wave. Does this mean that there could be some other animals who could respond to mechanical waves and thus see sound?
No!
Sound waves are propagated through the air molecules. You detect light because each photon carries enough energy to cause a chemical transition in your retina. While sound propagation happens through the vibration carried forward by each air molecule with in the picture. The energy in a sound wave is too widely dispersed to cause the same chemical transitions in your retina. So its not possible to see sound waves though you can see the sound waves physical effect that form ripples on the surface.
No!
Sound waves are propagated through the air molecules. You detect light because each photon carries enough energy to cause a chemical transition in your retina. While sound propagation happens through the vibration carried forward by each air molecule with in the picture. The energy in a sound wave is too widely dispersed to cause the same chemical transitions in your retina. So its not possible to see sound waves though you can see the sound waves physical effect that form ripples on the surface.
