Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Decibels are a unit of measurement used to quantify the intensity or loudness of sound. They measure the ratio between the level of a particular sound and a reference level.
Related terms
Sound Waves: Vibrations that travel through air, water, or other mediums and are responsible for producing sound.
Threshold of Pain: The minimum sound intensity at which pain is felt in the ears.
Noise Pollution: Excessive noise that disrupts human activities and can have negative effects on health and well-being.