Question

Why do people tend to cup their hands around listeners' ears when whispering to them?
Responses
A A cupped hand makes the sound echo so the listener can hear more clearly.A cupped hand makes the sound echo so the listener can hear more clearly.
B The ear cannot absorb sound waves produced by a whisper without a cupped hand.The ear cannot absorb sound waves produced by a whisper without a cupped hand.
C Solid objects, such as a cupped hand, can direct sound waves into the ear of the listener.Solid objects, such as a cupped hand, can direct sound waves into the ear of the listener.
D Sound waves from a whisper are short; they will not reach the ear unless guided by a hand.

Answer 1

C

Cupping the hand creates a reflecting/directing surface (a small horn or funnel) that channels and concentrates the whispered sound toward the listener’s ear, increasing the sound level at the ear. It’s not about the ear needing the hand to “absorb” sound or echoes.