What sound level change corresponds to a factor of five change in intensity?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the formula for sound intensity level, a factor of five change in intensity corresponds to a difference of approximately 7 dB. This is because the formula is IL = 10 log (I/Io), where I is the intensity being measured and Io is the reference intensity (usually taken to be the threshold of human hearing). If I is increased by a factor of 5, then IL will increase by 10 log (5) = 7 dB. Therefore, the correct answer is (C) 7 dB.

What Sound Level Change Corresponds to a Factor of Five