Study: Infrasound likely a key factor in alleged hauntings

New research suggests inaudible low-frequency sound waves may trigger feelings of unease and irritability often reported in haunted locations. | Contesto: cronaca

Punti chiave

• Study: Infrasound likely a key factor in alleged hauntings

Contesto

A recent study has identified infrasound—low-frequency sound waves below the threshold of human hearing—as a likely key factor in experiences commonly associated with alleged hauntings. Researchers found that exposure to infrasound, defined as sound below 20 hertz, can raise cortisol levels in saliva and increase irritability, potentially explaining the feelings of dread, anxiety, or unease reported in environments rumored to be haunted. The study, which analyzed the physiological effects of infrasound on human subjects, offers a scientific basis for phenomena long attributed to supernatural causes. Cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress, is known to influence mood and alertness. Elevated levels from infrasound exposure could account for reports of sudden chills, pressure, or a sense of being watched, without the need for paranormal explanations. Infrasound is naturally produced by sources such as wind, thunder, and ocean waves, but it can also emanate from man-made structures like ventilation systems, heavy machinery, or even traffic. In buildings with resonant frequencies that amplify these low waves, occupants may unknowingly experience physiological changes that they interpret as eerie or unsettling. This aligns with historical accounts of hauntings in old houses, castles, or cellars where such acoustics are common. The significance of this research extends beyond debunking ghost stories. Understanding infrasound's impact on human physiology could have practical applications in architecture and urban planning. Designers might consider infrasound mitigation in spaces where prolonged exposure could cause chronic stress or discomfort, such as offices, schools, or hospitals. The study also raises questions about how environmental factors shape subjective experiences of place. Critics caution that infrasound alone cannot account for all haunting phenomena, which often involve visual or auditory hallucinations that may stem from psychological suggestion or cultural beliefs. However, the study provides a compelling, measurable mechanism that bridges the gap between anecdotal reports and empirical science. It suggests that what people perceive as...

Lettura DEO

Decisione di validazione: publish

Risk score: 0.0

Il testo è stato ricostruito dai dati editoriali disponibili senza aggiungere fatti non presenti nel record sorgente.

Indicatore di affidabilità

Verificata — Alta confidenza. Fonti affidabili confermano la notizia.

Il sistema a semaforo

Ogni articolo su DEO include un indicatore di affidabilità:

• 🟢 Verificata — Alta confidenza. Fonti affidabili confermano la notizia.
• 🟡 In evoluzione — Confidenza moderata. Alcuni dettagli potrebbero ancora cambiare.
• 🔴 Contestata — Bassa confidenza. Fonti in conflitto o incertezze rilevanti.

Questo sistema esiste perché chi legge merita di sapere non solo cosa è successo, ma anche quanto la notizia è solida.

Categoria: cronaca