Acoustic phonetics is the branch of phonetics that studies the physical properties of sounds produced in human speech. It focuses on how speech sounds are generated, transmitted, and perceived. By analyzing sound waves, researchers can understand the frequency, amplitude, and duration of different speech sounds, which helps in distinguishing between various phonemes. This field is essential for various applications, including speech recognition technology and linguistics. Acoustic phonetics provides insights into how different languages use sound, aiding in language learning and teaching. Understanding these sound properties can also assist in diagnosing and treating speech disorders.