Final answer:
The loudness of sound is described by the intensity level or decibel (dB), which is a logarithmic unit reflecting how the human ear perceives sound.
Loudness refers to the intensity of a sound and is measured in decibels (dB).
Step-by-step explanation:
The word or phrase used to describe the loudness of sound is intensity level or decibel. Loudness refers to the intensity of a sound and is measured in decibels (dB).
The amplitude of a sound wave, which is the dimension of the wave from peak to trough, is perceived as loudness or volume. For example, normal human conversation is typically measured at about 60 decibels, whereas a rock concert can measure around 120 decibels.
It is important to note that prolonged exposure to sounds above 80 decibels can potentially lead to hearing damage. The decibel is a logarithmic unit that quantifies sound intensity in a manner that more accurately reflects how the human ear perceives changes in sound level.