Interrupted Masking as a Differential test of Auditory Function

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Abstract
The masking of a tone 15 db. above threshold by a complex masking sound (fundamental frequency far distant from the masked tone) given either continuously (Mc) or interrupted (Mi) is investigated. The critical rate of interruptions, i.e., Mc = Mi, is found for a 1000 Hz tone at 8-10/sec. if the silent intervals are less than 150 msec. The minimum silent interval becomes progressively larger, when the intensity of the masking noise is increased, without increasing the intensity of the masked tone. For high tones it is only slightly higher than for low tones (for 500 Hz. Mc = Mi at 6-8 interruptions, for 8000 Hz. Mc = Mi at 9-11 interruptions). In expts. performed on a large number of subjects, this critical rate of interruption was found to be much lower in cases of cochlear deafness, while it is the same as in the normal in cases of conduction deafness or nerve trunk deafness. The results of this test generally agree with the results of the other accepted tests of cochlear function.

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