What is a key characteristic of impulse sounds?

Impulse sounds are defined by their very short duration, typically lasting less than one second. This characteristic distinguishes them from other types of sounds, such as continuously varying sounds, which might last for longer periods. Examples of impulse sounds include a gunshot, a firecracker, or a balloon popping, all of which occur in a very brief, often sudden manner, producing sharp peaks in sound that occur quickly.

The other options do not accurately describe impulse sounds. For instance, sounds that last for several minutes would be categorized as continuous sounds rather than impulse sounds. Consistency in loudness typically applies to sounds that maintain a steady volume over their duration, which is not characteristic of impulse sounds that can have abrupt changes in amplitude. Furthermore, while some impulse sounds may be low in intensity, impulse sounds can also vary widely in loudness; therefore, stating that they have low intensity does not apply universally. The defining feature remains their very quick duration, affirming that they last less than one second.