What ability refers to the skill of distinguishing between tones at different frequencies?

The ability to distinguish between tones at different frequencies is known as frequency discrimination. This skill involves the perceptual capacity to differentiate sounds based on their frequency, allowing us to identify variations in pitch.

While pitch perception refers to the way we experience and interpret these differences, frequency discrimination specifically focuses on the accuracy of identifying and comparing different frequencies. In essence, it is the underlying process that allows one to perceive pitch changes. Tone recognition, on the other hand, pertains to identifying familiar sounds or musical notes rather than the ability to discriminate frequencies. Sound localization involves determining the direction from which a sound originates, but does not directly relate to distinguishing between tones based on their frequencies.

Therefore, the focus on the ability to differentiate specific frequencies categorizes frequency discrimination as the correct term for this skill.