What noise frequency range do solid barriers most effectively control?

Solid barriers are particularly effective at controlling high-frequency noise primarily due to the physical properties of sound waves and the materials used in such barriers. High-frequency sounds have shorter wavelengths, which allows them to be blocked or reflected more effectively by dense materials.

Barriers made of solid materials, such as concrete or thick walls, can impede these high-frequency sound waves significantly because they do not easily penetrate solid structures. In contrast, low-frequency sounds have longer wavelengths that are much more difficult to control using solid barriers. This is because these sound waves can diffract around obstacles or travel through materials more easily than their high-frequency counterparts.

While mid-frequency noise also sees some reduction when using barriers, the solid materials are primarily designed with high-frequency control in mind. The effectiveness of the barrier diminishes as the frequencies move towards the lower end of the spectrum, making it clear why high frequencies are where the dissipative properties of solid barriers are most beneficial.