The difference between high frequency and low frequency sounds lies in their respective wavelengths and the perception they generate in humans.
Frequency refers to the number of oscillations or cycles of a sound wave per second and is measured in hertz (Hz). High frequency sounds have a greater number of cycles per second, while low frequency sounds have a lower number of cycles per second.
In terms of wavelength, high frequency sounds have shorter wavelengths, meaning that the distance between consecutive points of the wave is smaller. Conversely, low frequency sounds have longer wavelengths, indicating a greater distance between wave points.
When it comes to human perception, high frequency sounds are generally associated with a "high pitch" or a "sharp" quality. Examples of high frequency sounds include a whistle, a bird chirping, or the sound of a violin playing a high note.
On the other hand, low frequency sounds are perceived as having a "low pitch" or a "deep" quality. Examples of low frequency sounds include the rumbling of thunder, the sound of a large drum, or the bass notes in music.
Our ability to hear different frequencies varies from person to person, but the audible range for most humans is approximately 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Sounds below 20 Hz are referred to as infrasound, while sounds above 20,000 Hz are referred to as ultrasound.
In summary, the difference between high frequency and low frequency sounds lies in their respective wavelengths, the number of cycles per second, and the pitch or perceived quality they generate in human hearing.