Amplitude and Perceived Loudness

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In summary, amplitude refers to the maximum displacement or distance of a wave from its rest position and is measured in decibels (dB) on a logarithmic scale. Amplitude and perceived loudness are directly related, with a higher amplitude resulting in a louder perceived sound. Amplitude also affects sound quality, with a higher amplitude making a sound appear louder and clearer. However, two sounds with different amplitudes can have the same perceived loudness, depending on factors such as frequency, distance, and environment.
  • #1
carlodelmundo
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Hi.

If amplitude is doubled, is perceived loudness necessary doubled?

If I recall correctly, we hear things on a logarithmic scale.
 
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  • #2
You are correct. While loudness doubles, the human ear interprets different frequencies differently. This is why there have been different weighing functions, i.e. dBA, dBC etc...
 
  • #3
This means that doubling the amplitude does not necessarily result in a perceived doubling of loudness. In fact, a perceived doubling of loudness would require an increase of about 10 decibels. This is because our ears are more sensitive to changes in lower amplitudes and less sensitive to changes in higher amplitudes. This is why a small increase in volume from a low setting can sound much louder than a small increase from a high setting. So while doubling the amplitude may result in a noticeable increase in loudness, it may not necessarily be perceived as double the loudness. Other factors such as frequency and duration of the sound also play a role in our perception of loudness.
 

FAQ: Amplitude and Perceived Loudness

1. What is amplitude?

Amplitude refers to the maximum displacement or distance of a wave from its rest position. In other words, it is the measure of the height or intensity of a sound wave.

2. How is amplitude measured?

Amplitude is typically measured in decibels (dB). This is a logarithmic scale that compares the intensity of a sound wave to a reference level. The higher the decibel level, the louder the perceived sound.

3. What is the relationship between amplitude and perceived loudness?

Amplitude and perceived loudness are directly related. As the amplitude of a sound wave increases, so does the perceived loudness. This means that a sound with a higher amplitude will be perceived as louder than one with a lower amplitude.

4. How does amplitude affect the sound quality?

The amplitude of a sound wave can affect the sound quality in several ways. A higher amplitude can make a sound appear louder and clearer, while a lower amplitude can make it sound softer and less distinct. Amplitude can also impact the frequency and pitch of a sound.

5. Can two sounds with different amplitudes have the same perceived loudness?

Yes, it is possible for two sounds with different amplitudes to have the same perceived loudness. This can happen if one sound has a higher frequency, which can make it seem louder even with a lower amplitude. Additionally, factors such as distance and environment can also affect the perceived loudness of a sound.

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