Perceived frequency differences scale logarithmically, not linearly with Hz

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 (#exemplifies, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Loudness perception is essentially logarithmic — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 611; The mel scale conflicts with musical logarithmic scales but remains useful in technical applications; Logarithmically swept sines measure distortion and match human auditory frequency scaling (+1 more)

Broader Connections

• Logarithmically swept sines measure distortion and match human auditory frequency scaling #expands (0.90)
• Loudness perception is essentially logarithmic #exemplifies (0.75) — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 611
• The mel scale conflicts with musical logarithmic scales but remains useful in technical applications #corroborates (0.72)