Sound is a form of energy that travels through the air or any other medium. It is measured in decibels (dB) which is a logarithmic unit of measurement used to express the intensity or loudness of sound. The human ear can hear sounds ranging from 0dB to 140dB, with 0dB being the threshold of hearing and 140dB being the threshold of pain.
What Is A Decibel?
A decibel is one-tenth of a bel, which is a unit of measurement for the ratio of two power levels. The decibel is used to compare two power levels by taking the logarithm of the ratio of the two levels and multiplying by ten. For example, if the power level of sound A is 10 times greater than the power level of sound B, then the difference in decibels between the two sounds is 10dB.
How Is Sound Measured In Decibels?
Sound is measured using a device called a sound level meter. This device measures the sound pressure level in decibels and displays the results on a screen. To measure the sound level, the sound level meter is placed at the location where the sound is being produced or received. The measurements are then recorded and analyzed to determine the intensity or loudness of the sound.
What Are The Different Levels Of Sound?
There are various levels of sound that we encounter in our daily lives. Some of them are:
- 0dB – Threshold of hearing
- 20dB – Whispering
- 50dB – Normal conversation
- 80dB – Heavy traffic
- 120dB – Rock concert
- 140dB – Threshold of pain
What Are The Effects Of Loud Noise?
Loud noise can have harmful effects on our ears and health. Exposure to loud noise for a prolonged period can cause permanent damage to our ears, leading to hearing loss or tinnitus. It can also cause stress, fatigue, and headaches. Therefore, it is essential to protect our ears from loud noise by using earplugs or earmuffs.
What Are The Sources Of Loud Noise?
There are various sources of loud noise in our environment, such as:
- Construction sites
- Heavy traffic
- Airplanes
- Fireworks
- Gunshots
- Rock concerts
How Can We Reduce Noise Pollution?
Noise pollution can be reduced by taking various measures such as:
- Using sound-absorbing materials in buildings
- Planting trees and bushes to absorb sound
- Using electric vehicles instead of gasoline-powered vehicles
- Regulating noise levels in public places
- Using earplugs or earmuffs in loud environments
Conclusion
Sound is an essential part of our lives, but it can also be harmful if not controlled. We measure the loudness of sound in decibels, which is a logarithmic unit of measurement. It is essential to protect our ears from loud noise as it can cause permanent damage to our hearing. Noise pollution can be reduced by taking various measures such as using sound-absorbing materials and regulating noise levels in public places.
