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A decibel scale does not increase like a ruler

A conversation measured at 60 decibels is not just a little bit louder than a quiet library at 40 decibels. Because the decibel scale is logarithmic rather than linear like a ruler, every 10-decibel step represents a tenfold increase in sound intensity, while how loud it feels to human ears is a separate question entirely.

3–5 min

Questions you could explore

  • Why is a logarithmic scale useful across a wide range of intensities?
  • How do intensity, pressure, and loudness differ?

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Why metal can feel colder than wood

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How can a ship made of steel float?

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