On Auditory Intensity Discrimination

Abstract

The mean just discriminable increment of intensity, [DELTA]I, was established in auditory expts. based upon apparent shift of localization of a centrally synthesized sound, I 1 and I 2, originating separately at the 2 ears. As in visual and other tests involving successive excitation of a single peripheral sensory field, [DELTA]I m and P.E. [DELTA]/ are directly proportional, and P.E. [DELTA]/ is a rectilinear function of I 2. If the properties of [DELTA]I in a given case are to be taken as due to properties of the mechanism of peripheral excitation, this can only be done to the extent that the statistical character of [DELTA]I is recognized. Specific mechanisms of peripheral excitation cannot be based upon the data of intensity discrimination.