How much louder (more intense) is a 55-dB sound than a 13-dB sound?

Question

egenriether · Answer

55-13 = 42
10*log(X) = 42
log(X) = 4.2
$$X=10^{4.2}$$
15849 times more intense.
For a feel of decibels, 40 dB is 10,000 times more intense.

anonymous · Answer

thank you. I have a few more questions on this., but it will take me a sec. Can you just keep a lookout on this question?

anonymous · Answer

would i get the same answer with this equation: loudness in dB=10log10(Intensity of the sound/intensity of the softest audible sound)?

egenriether · Answer

I'm thinking on that.  In fact I'm thinking on my original answer.  Gimme a sec...

anonymous · Answer

no problem

egenriether · Answer

I think so but that just gives the absolute intensity.  Your original question is about the ratio of two intensities.  Logarithms (dB's) can be used for comparisons of two intensities or as an absolute measurement, but either way you end up with a ratio.

anonymous · Answer

Alright thanks

anonymous · Answer

db is a relative mesure ,it cant be used as a power

anonymous · Answer

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