What does an audiogram represent?

An audiogram is a visual representation of an individual's hearing sensitivity across a range of frequencies. It specifically indicates the hearing threshold levels, which are the quietest sounds that a person can detect at different pitches or frequencies. The results of a hearing test are plotted on the audiogram to illustrate the degree of hearing loss or normal hearing at various frequencies, typically measured in hertz (Hz) and depicted in decibels (dB).

The axes of an audiogram show frequency on the horizontal axis and hearing level (decibels) on the vertical axis. Each point plotted indicates the lowest volume at which the individual can hear a particular frequency. Therefore, the audiogram serves as an essential tool in diagnosing hearing impairments and determining appropriate audiological interventions such as hearing aids or other therapies.

While the other options relate to aspects of hearing, they do not accurately capture what an audiogram measures. Ambient noise levels refer to background sounds in an environment, speech perception scores assess an individual's ability to understand spoken language, and intensity of sound pertains to loudness rather than the threshold at which sounds can be heard. Hence, the audiogram focused specifically on hearing threshold levels is the correct representation.