Theories of sound localization

Sound localization involves the brain determining where a sound is coming from. It does this mainly through two cues: timing and intensity differences between our ears. If a sound comes from the right, it reaches the right ear slightly sooner and sounds louder there, compared to the left ear. The brain interprets these subtle differences to identify the direction. Some theories also consider how the shape of our ears and head modify sound, providing us with additional spatial info. Overall, our auditory system uses these cues collectively to accurately pinpoint sound sources in our environment.