A noise barrier, also known as a sound barrier, is a physical structure designed to reduce or block the transmission of sound waves between a noise source and a receiver. Noise barriers work by absorbing, reflecting, or diffracting sound waves, depending on their design and construction.
When sound waves encounter a noise barrier, some of the energy is absorbed by the material, which helps to reduce the overall sound level on the other side of the barrier. The remaining sound waves are either reflected or diffracted around the barrier, depending on the angle of incidence and the shape of the barrier.
The effectiveness of a noise barrier depends on several factors, including its height, length, and location, as well as the frequency and intensity of the noise being produced. Noise barriers are typically constructed along highways, railways, and other transportation routes to reduce the impact of noise pollution on nearby communities.