What phenomenon occurs when the outer ear is occluded, increasing loudness perception of bone-conducted sounds?

The phenomenon that occurs when the outer ear is occluded, resulting in an increased loudness perception of bone-conducted sounds, is known as the Occlusion Effect. This effect happens because occluding the ear canal prevents the escape of sound waves created by the vibrations of the bones in the skull. When the ear canal is blocked, these vibrations are more effectively transmitted to the inner ear, leading to a perception of greater loudness for those bone-conducted sounds.

This perceptual change can be particularly noticeable with lower frequency sounds. Essentially, when the outer ear is sealed off, the air pressure changes and sound waves travel differently, enhancing the listener's experience of these vibrations. Understanding the Occlusion Effect is crucial in audiology and hearing aid dispensing as it relates to how patients perceive sound and may impact the fitting and adjustment of hearing devices.