Decibel increases map powers of ten to logarithms

Evidence

Use of the dB(SPL) scale results in a more convenient range of values (0 to 130) to consider, since values in the range of about 0 to 100 are common in everyday dealings. Also, it is a more appropriate basis for expressing acoustic amplitude values, changes in which are primarily perceived as variations in loudness, since loudness perception turns out to be essentially logarithmic in nature. — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 611 (#expands, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Logarithmic hearing means equal decibel steps need larger absolute pressure differences; Decibel sound levels cannot be added directly because they are logarithmic; Decibel values must be converted to ratios before they can be added (+8 more)

Broader Connections

• Decibel sound levels cannot be added directly because they are logarithmic #expands (0.95)
• Loudness perception is logarithmic, which is why decibel scales fit hearing so well. #expands (0.95)
• Loudness perception is essentially logarithmic #expands (0.95) — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 611
• Decibel values must be converted to ratios before they can be added #expands (0.90)
• Each 10 dB of level requires ten times the amplifier power #exemplifies (0.90)
• Adding equal sound intensities yields a 3 dB total increment #exemplifies (0.90)
• Sound level multiplications become decibel additions in reflections #expands (0.85)
• Musical scales are exponential, so changing the octave needs logarithmic scaling #exemplifies (0.85)
• Independent partitions sum their attenuation in decibels #exemplifies (0.85) — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 2119
• Adding uncorrelated sound sources raises level as the square root of their number #exemplifies (0.85)