What defines hearing in the context of communication?

The definition of hearing in the context of communication emphasizes the physiological aspect of sound perception. Hearing is fundamentally about the auditory process, which involves the ability to detect and process sound waves through the ear and brain. It is a passive activity that occurs when sounds reach the auditory system, enabling an individual to hear noises, speech, and other auditory stimuli.

This understanding distinguishes hearing from other processes related to communication, such as listening or interpreting messages. Listening requires active engagement and cognitive processing of what is heard, while interpreting intentions or responding appropriately falls beyond the mere act of hearing. Consequently, option B accurately captures the essence of hearing as a biological function rather than a cognitive or interpretative process.