# How close does a meteorite have to be in order to be heard by the human ear?

...speaking of Perseid meteor showers...How close would a Perseid meteorite have to be in order to be heard by the human ear? Is it even possible to hear a Perseid meteorite? If they come close enough, would we hear "ka-boom!", or would it sizzle, or do they always burn up before we hear them?

• It's impossible to hear a meteor, as there isn't enough matter in space to transmit the sound. A meteorite is a different matter though. – Ignacio Vazquez-Abrams Aug 13 '12 at 3:50
• Its also related to the size of the meteorite. What should be the size of the meteorite that it can reach the ground? (if it is from Perseid meteor shower) – Asphir Dom Aug 13 '12 at 6:55

$t \approx \frac{100\mathrm{\ km} }{340 \mathrm{\ m/s}} \approx 5 \mathrm{\ minutes}$
Here it is mentioned that low frequency radio waves emitted by a meteorite burning up can cause the human ear to register sound -- the electrophonic effect. A more detailed explanation can be found here (Sorry I couldn't find a link that works properly describing the effect in relation to meteorites). This sound would be heard instantly upon seeing the meteorite (as radio waves travel at $c$), and resemble a low hissing sound ("like bacon frying").