Because the scale is logarithmic, you cannot simply add decibel numbers together.
: Dedicated Sound Level Meters (SPL meters) use calibrated microphones to provide high accuracy for workplace or legal standards. Decibel
The is a logarithmic unit used to express the ratio between two values, most commonly sound intensity or electrical power. Unlike linear scales (like inches or pounds), the decibel scale compresses vast ranges of numbers into manageable figures, reflecting how human senses—specifically hearing—actually perceive change. Core Concepts Because the scale is logarithmic, you cannot simply
: Adding a second identical sound source (e.g., two identical 60 dB vacuum cleaners) increases the total level by only 3 dB , resulting in 63 dB, not 120 dB. Unlike linear scales (like inches or pounds), the
: The scale is not linear. An increase of 10 dB represents a 10-fold increase in sound intensity and roughly a doubling of perceived loudness.