Final answer:
The loudness of a sound is related to the amplitude of the vibration. Higher amplitudes result in louder sounds and this relationship is directly proportional. The ear's sensitivity also affects perceived loudness, with certain frequencies appearing louder due to the ear's response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The loudness of a sound is primarily related to the amplitude of the vibration. Loudness, measured in decibels, increases with higher amplitudes. Amplitude corresponds to the energy transferred into the medium: as the amplitude of the vibration increases, the air molecules move more vigorously, resulting in a louder sound. The vibration of a source sets the amplitude of a wave, and more energetic vibration corresponds to larger amplitude, leading to greater pressure maxima and minima in the sound wave. This concept is fundamental in understanding that the amplitude is directly proportional to the loudness experience.
While the amplitude is an essential factor, the sensitivity of the ear also plays a significant role. The human ear is more sensitive to certain frequencies. Sound waves with frequencies within this sensitive range can seem louder due to the ear's frequency response, even if their amplitude is the same as sound waves outside of this range.