What sound level change corresponds to a factor of two change in intensity?
A)0.2 dB
B)2.0 dB
C)3.0 dB
D)11 dB
E)20 dB

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The formula to calculate the change in decibel level with respect to the intensity is given by ΔL=10log10(I2/I1). 
If the intensity changes by a factor of 2, then I2/I1=2, and the above formula becomes ΔL=10log10(2)=10*0.301=3.01 dB, which can be approximated as 3.0 dB. Therefore, the correct answer is option C.

What Sound Level Change Corresponds to a Factor of Two