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Amplitude and loudness
~5 min read
Amplitude is the size of the pressure wave. Bigger wave = louder sound. We measure loudness in decibels (dB), a logarithmic scale where +10 dB feels roughly twice as loud.
| dB SPL | Example |
|---|---|
| 0 | Threshold of hearing |
| 30 | A whisper |
| 60 | Normal conversation |
| 85 | Heavy traffic - prolonged exposure risks hearing damage |
| 110 | A loud rock concert |
| 140 | Jet engine close-by - immediate damage risk |