How does our brain locate sounds?

Andrew Huberman explains that the brain locates sounds through a process called interaural time differences. This system works by detecting the difference in time it takes for a sound to reach each ear. If a sound arrives at your right ear before your left, your brain concludes that the sound source is to the right. Conversely, if both ears receive the sound at the same time, the source is directly in front of or behind you. These time differences allow you to pinpoint the direction of the sound source accurately 1.

Regarding vertical sound localization, the brain relies on frequency differences. The shape of your ears modifies the sound depending on whether it comes from above, below, or directly ahead, allowing you to discern the elevation of the sound source. Cupping your ears can enhance this ability as it funnels sound waves more effectively into the ear canal 1. This process is further aided by precise auditory neurons in the brain, aligning with visual and motor maps to help us respond appropriately to sound cues in our environment 2.