The study showed that softer hands produce quicker-decaying sounds. Conversely, clapping more forcefully—or in a shape that stiffens the hands—generates a louder, longer-lasting clap.

The use of silent applause will be encouraged at events held by Oxford's student union, and the group is now lobbying the school to replace applause with jazz hands at all university events.

Snowflake students at Oxford University are latest to demand clapping is banned because applause noise could trigger anxiety as they call for 'jazz hands' to be used instead Roisin McCallion and ...

Jazz hands, a quiet shaking gesture of the hands that’s recognized by British sign language, is considered a more inclusive alternative to clapping, according to reports.