Discover why soft surfaces are the best choice for creating a comfortable acoustic environment in LEED certified green buildings. Learn about acoustic design for LEED.
Table of Contents
Question
Which of the following interior items contributes to a comfortable acoustic environment?
A. Glass cubicle partitions
B. Wood cabinets
C. Hollow metal doors
D. Soft surfaces
Answer
D. Soft surfaces
Explanation
Soft surfaces like carpet, rugs, upholstered furniture, curtains, and acoustic panels absorb sound waves, reducing echoes and reverberation. This helps create a more comfortable acoustic environment.
In contrast:
A. Glass is a hard, reflective surface that does not absorb sound well. Glass cubicle partitions can cause sound to bounce around, increasing noise.
B. Wood is a somewhat porous material but much less sound-absorbent than soft, fibrous surfaces. Wood cabinets do little to improve acoustic comfort.
C. Hollow metal doors are poor at blocking sound transmission compared to solid-core doors. The hollow space allows sound waves to pass through more easily.
Therefore, of the options provided, soft surfaces are the best choice for optimizing acoustic comfort, as they absorb rather than reflect sound. Proper use of soft, sound-absorbing materials is an important acoustic design strategy in LEED certified buildings to create healthy, comfortable indoor environments for occupants. Other key factors include sound barriers, background noise levels, and limiting reverberation time.
USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the USGBC LEED Green Associate exam and earn USGBC LEED Green Associate certification.