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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
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Published on: March 16, 2015
Theory and experiment in so-called pulse-interval pitch
Abstract:
Moore [1980] has criticised the conclusions of Whitfield [1979] who used an alternating pulsatile stimulus [Seebeck, 1843], and found that the predominating interpulse intervals produced in a single auditory nerve fibre did not correspond to the perceived pitch. Moore's criticism depends on an assumption he makes that is not in fact borne out by the experiments.
Insights
Moore criticized findings on auditory nerve fibers and perceived pitch. His criticism was based on an unproven experimental assumption, challenging previous conclusions about pitch perception.
Area of Science:
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Psychoacoustics
- Neurophysiology
Background:
- The relationship between auditory nerve fiber activity and pitch perception is a key area in auditory neuroscience.
- Previous research explored the role of interpulse intervals in encoding pitch information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate Moore's [1980] criticism of Whitfield's [1979] conclusions regarding auditory nerve fiber responses and pitch perception.
- To examine the validity of the assumptions underlying Moore's critique.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of experimental data from studies using alternating pulsatile stimuli.
- Evaluation of theoretical assumptions made in auditory perception models.
Main Results:
- Moore's criticism of Whitfield's findings on interpulse intervals and perceived pitch was found to be based on an unsubstantiated assumption.
- The experimental evidence did not support Moore's critique regarding the correspondence between nerve fiber activity and pitch.
Conclusions:
- The original findings by Whitfield regarding the lack of correspondence between predominant interpulse intervals and perceived pitch remain valid.
- Moore's critique did not invalidate the experimental conclusions due to a flawed underlying assumption.
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