Scientists Use 3D-Printed Model to Recreate Parasaurolophus Sounds
A new study explores the acoustic properties of the dinosaur's crest to approximate its vocalizations.
- Researcher Hongjun Lin from NYU has developed a physical model to study the sounds of Parasaurolophus, a duck-billed dinosaur from 70-80 million years ago.
- The dinosaur's distinctive crest likely functioned as a resonance chamber, amplifying low-frequency sounds similar to modern brass instruments.
- The 3D-printed apparatus, called the 'Linophone,' experimentally verifies a mathematical model of the crest's acoustics.
- Initial findings suggest the dinosaur's calls were deep and resonant, with frequencies aligning with prior paleontological studies.
- Future plans include refining the model using fossil scans and creating digital tools to simulate the sounds for research and creative applications.