An experiment is reported on continuity effects produced in a longer‐duration, less‐intense noise signal alternating with a shorter‐duration, higher‐intensity tonal signal. The perceived continuity in the noise signal is demonstrated to be significantly affected by the following: (1) the frequency of the tonal signal (200, 400, 1000, 2000, and 4000 cps), (2) the duration of the noise signal (70, 250, and 950 msec), and (3) the manner of presentation (monaural versus dichotic). Monaural thresholds were found to be larger than dichotic continuity thresholds. Continuity effects were demonstrated under dichotic presentation. That is, the noise signal was reported as continuous when interrupted for periods of time that would be clearly perceived if no tonal signal were interpolated the interruptions of the noise. A two factor theory is forwarded to explain the dichotic and monaural continuity effects. The monaural effects are discussed in terms of rate of decay of auditory sensation. The dichotic effects are discussed in terms of facilitation of ongoing neural discharge somewhat more central than the first‐order neurons.

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