What is meant by impulse/impact noise?

Impulse or impact noise is characterized by brief, loud sounds that occur in short bursts. These noises can result from sources such as gunfire, explosions, or heavy machinery. The key feature of impulse noise is its transient nature; it has a rapid onset, a quick peak, and a sudden drop-off. This can pose unique risks to hearing health, as the intensity of the sound can be high, leading to potential hearing damage even with short exposure.

The other options describe different types of sound characteristics. Steady and regular noises would refer to sounds that remain constant over time, which does not fit the definition of impulse noise. Noises that have a continuously varying frequency describe a different phenomenon where the frequency fluctuates rather than presenting sharp bursts. Sounds that are softer than continuous sounds imply a lower intensity, which also does not align with the loudness typically associated with impulse noises. Understanding these distinctions helps in assessing the impact of various noise types on hearing health.