Noise activates the reticular formation, the descending nerves of which bring motor responses to threshold, as seen in the acoustic startle response, and in operatives whose work on a property consigns neighbouring properties to loud radio waves.

Noise improves auditory perception by the activation of stapedius muscles and tensor tympani muscles by nerves of the descending reticular formation.

Noise improves visual perception by the activation of ocular muscles through the nerves of the descending reticular formation.

Noise improves tactile perception by the activation of arrectores pilorum muscles through the nerves of the descending reticular formation.