How Does Sound Intensity Change with Multiple Instruments?

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SUMMARY

The sound level of multiple musical instruments does not simply add together linearly in decibels (dB). When 10 instruments, each producing an average sound level of B dB, play simultaneously, the correct calculation involves sound intensity rather than direct addition. The total sound level can be calculated using the formula for sound intensity, which states that each 10 dB increase represents a tenfold increase in intensity. Therefore, the correct answer is B + 10 dB, not 10B.

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  • Understanding of sound intensity and decibel scale
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  • Familiarity with sound level calculations
  • Basic principles of acoustics
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Homework Statement



The average sound level of a typical musical instrument in a musical group is B dB. WHat is the sound level in Db if 10 instruments are simultaneously playing.

answer choices: B'= 10B, 5B, B+5, B+20, B+2, B+10, B+1, 20B, B, or 2B

My first thought was that it would be 10B since each instrument would contribute a sound level of B. My logic seems too simple. Can someone tell me if I'm on the right path? thanks.
 
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Hi glasshut137,

When you have multiple sound sources, the total sound level in dB does not add (so two 10dB sources do not give a sound level of 20dB). Instead it is the intensity of the sound that adds together.

You should have an expression that relates sound level in dB and sound intensity so that you can convert from one to the other and back. What do you get?
 

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