What type of measurement unit is used to express the phase of a sound wave?

The phase of a sound wave is typically expressed in both degrees and radians, which are both angular measurement units. However, in the context of audio and sound waves, degrees are often the more intuitive and commonly used unit for describing phase shifts.

When dealing with sound waves, the phase describes the position of a point in time on a waveform cycle, which can be related to how far the wave has moved from its starting point. Degrees provide a straightforward way to convey this position, as a complete cycle of a wave corresponds to 360 degrees.

While radians are also correct in terms of mathematically representing phase (with a complete cycle being 2π radians), the question is likely reflecting a preference for degrees, especially in practical applications and among audiologists and sound engineers.

Decibels measure sound intensity or pressure levels, while hertz refers to the frequency of the sound wave, indicating the number of cycles per second. Therefore, the choice of degrees best aligns with the common practice of expressing phase in the field of sound and hearing.