Thunder is heard as a sharp crack from nearby but a low rumble from a far distance because
A) Lower sound frequencies travel through the air faster than higher sound frequencies.
B) Sound intensity decreases by a factor of four each time distance doubles.
C) Air molecules absorb energy at higher sound frequencies more than at lower frequencies.
D) Reverberation decreases as source distance increases.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Air molecules absorb energy at higher sound frequencies more than at lower frequencies, which causes the higher frequencies to dissipate more quickly over distance. This leaves the lower frequencies, which we perceive as a rumble, to travel further.

Thunder Is Heard as a Sharp Crack from Nearby but a Low