Comparing Sounds: 80 dB, 30 dB, and 50 dB

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the relative loudness of sounds measured in decibels (dB), specifically comparing 80 dB and 30 dB to a reference sound at 50 dB. It is established that a sound at 80 dB is 32 times louder than 50 dB, while a sound at 30 dB is 0.1 times quieter than 50 dB. The logarithmic nature of the decibel scale is highlighted, with the formula R = 10*log(P1/P2) used to derive these relationships. Understanding this logarithmic scale is crucial for accurately interpreting sound levels.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of decibel (dB) scale and its logarithmic properties
  • Basic knowledge of sound power and intensity ratios
  • Familiarity with logarithmic equations and calculations
  • Ability to interpret sound level comparisons
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the logarithmic scale in detail, focusing on its application in sound measurement
  • Learn how to apply the formula R = 10*log(P1/P2) in various sound scenarios
  • Explore the differences between sound pressure level (SPL) and sound power level (SWL)
  • Investigate real-world applications of decibel measurements in acoustics and audio engineering
USEFUL FOR

Acoustics students, audio engineers, sound technicians, and anyone interested in understanding sound measurement and its implications in various fields.

homevolend
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Homework Statement



How many times quiter or louder is a sound at
1. 80 dB
2. 30 dB
than a sound 50 dB


Homework Equations



dB2=dB1-dB2?

The Attempt at a Solution



Would this just mean

1. 30 dB louder
2. 2 dB softer?

Or how would I finds "times louder".
Sorry for bad english.
 
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homevolend said:

Homework Statement



How many times quiter or louder is a sound at
1. 80 dB
2. 30 dB
than a sound 50 dB


Homework Equations



dB2=dB1-dB2?

The Attempt at a Solution



Would this just mean

1. 30 dB louder
2. 2 dB softer?

Or how would I finds "times louder".
Sorry for bad english.

dB or deciBells are a logarithmic way of expressing ratios:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decibel

For sound power (loudness), the equation is R = 10*log(P1/P2)

So if P1 is equal to P2, the ratio R is 0db.

If P1 is equal to 10 * P2, the ratio R is 10dB.

Makes sense?
 

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