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What is Ultrasound?

Sound waves with frequencies higher than the upper audible limit of human hearing

are called ultrasound. The limit varies from person to person but is approximately

20,000 Hertz. The physical properties of ultrasound are similar to the normal audible
sound.

This type of scientific concept is used in many different fields such as navigation,
medicine, imaging, cleaning, mixing, communication, testing etc. Even in nature,

bats and porpoises use this particular technique for the location of prey and

obstacles. In the following section, we shall learn about its applications.

Applications of ultrasound

Cleaning:

In objects with parts that are difficult to reach, for example, spiral tubes and

electronic components, the process of ultrasonic cleaning is used. Here, the object is
dipped in a solution of suitable cleaning material and ultrasonic waves are passed

into it. As a result of this, high-frequency waves are generated that cause the dirt and
grease to detach from the surface.

Detection of cracks:

Ultrasound is used to detect cracks in the metallic components that are used in the
construction of high rise structures such as buildings and bridges. They generate

and display an ultrasonic waveform that is interpreted by a trained operator, often
with the aid of analysis software, to locate and categorize flaws in test pieces. High-

frequency sound waves reflect from flaws in predictable ways, producing distinctive