DefinitionAn audiology exam tests your ability to hear sounds. Sounds vary based on their loudness (intensity) and the speed of sound wave vibrations (tone).Hearing occurs when sound waves are converted into electrical energy, which stimulates the nerves of the inner ear. Eventually the sound travels along nerve pathways to the brain.Sound waves can travel to the inner ear through the ear canal, eardrum, and bones of the middle ear (air conduction), or through the bones around and behind the ear (bone conduction).The INTENSITY of sound is measured in decibels (dB):A whisper is about 20 dBLoud music (some concerts) is around 80 - 120 dBA jet engine is about 140 - 180 dBUsually, sounds greater than 85 dB can cause hearing loss in a few hours. Louder sounds can cause immediate pain, and heari