(a) What is sonography? (b) How do bats and whales make use of ultrasonic sounds? (c) What are the harmful effects of noise pollution?

Sonography, also known as ultrasonography, is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves, called ultrasound waves, to create images of organs, tissues, or blood flow within the human body. This technique is non-invasive, painless, and is usually used by medical professionals for various purposes such as pregnancy evaluations, diagnosis of certain diseases, and monitoring the health of various organs.

Both bats and whales use ultrasonic sounds for navigation and communication in their respective environments. This unique mechanism is commonly referred to as echolocation. Bats emit high-pitched sounds in the ultrasonic frequency range which are inaudible to human ears. These sound waves are emitted from their mouth or nose and travel into the surrounding environment. When the sound waves encounter an object, they bounce back, or echo, to the bat. By analyzing the time it takes for the echo to return and the changes in frequency and intensity of the returned sound, bats can determine the distance, size, and shape of objects, helping them to locate food and avoid obstacles. Similarly, whales also produce and use ultrasonic sounds for echolocation and communication. Various species of whales communicate through a series of clicks, whistles, and other vocalizations in the ultrasonic frequency range. These sounds can travel long distances underwater and help whales to locate other members of their group, find food, and navigate their underwater environment.

Noise pollution refers to excessive and harmful levels of noise in the environment. The main sources of noise pollution are transportation, construction, industrial activities, and devices such as loudspeakers. The harmful effects of noise pollution include: 1. Hearing problems: Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can result in temporary or permanent hearing loss and tinnitus (a persistent ringing sound in the ears). 2. Sleep disturbances: High noise levels can interfere with and disrupt sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation and its associated health risks, such as fatigue, irritability, and weakened immune system. 3. Cardiovascular issues: Chronic exposure to noise pollution has been associated with an increased risk of hypertension, heart attack, and stroke. 4. Stress and mental health: Persistent noise pollution can trigger stress responses, resulting in anxiety, mood disorders, and decreased cognitive function. 5. Effects on wildlife: Noise pollution can disrupt the natural habitats of animals by interfering with their feeding, mating, and communication patterns, leading to negative consequences for biodiversity and ecosystems. To address noise pollution, communities and governments often enforce noise-reducing regulations, promote quieter technologies, and raise public awareness about the negative impacts of excessive noise on human health and the environment.