Some Experiments on the Detection of Short Duration Stimuli

Abstract

A series of experiments has been performed on the detection of equal-energy tone-bursts of different durations. The results support the concept that the critical duration, or end point of energy integration shortens with increasing frequency. The learning effect on the detection of these bursts in a background of white noise seems to be related to the level of detectability of the tone burst rather than to its duration. The abnormal results found in a patient with recruitment are considered. The detectability of bursts of white noise suggests that a trading relationship of 6dB per decade of duration occurs for noise-bursts in a background of white noise.