What is the term used to describe the phenomenon where high noise levels impair concentration?

The phenomenon where high noise levels impair concentration is known as tunnel hearing. This term describes how excessive noise can block out important auditory cues and make it difficult to focus on specific sounds or tasks. In environments with high background noise, individuals may struggle to concentrate, leading to decreased performance and increased risk of accidents. Tunnel hearing emphasizes the cognitive effects of noise, particularly in settings where attention to detail and communication are critical.

The other choices refer to different aspects of sound and noise management. Sound isolation pertains to the prevention of sound from entering or leaving a space, which is more about controlling noise levels rather than the effect of noise on concentration. Acoustic fatigue describes the physical effects of sustained exposure to loud sounds on the auditory system, which is more about hearing damage than cognitive function. Echo suppression involves reducing reverberations in a space to improve sound clarity, again focusing on sound control rather than the specific impairments to concentration caused by high noise levels.