Question

How many times more is the intensity of an 80 dB sound wave than the intensity of a 40 dB sound wave?

Answer 1

The intensity of an 80 dB sound wave is 4 times greater than the intensity of a 40 dB sound wave.

Step-by-step explanation:

In physics, the intensity of a sound wave is measured on a logarithmic scale called decibels (dB). Each increase of 10 dB represents a tenfold increase in intensity.

So, to find the factor by which the intensity of an 80 dB sound wave is greater than a 40 dB sound wave:

1. Determine the difference in dB between the two sound waves (80 dB - 40 dB = 40 dB).
2. Divide the difference by 10 to get the factor (40 dB / 10 = 4).

Therefore, the intensity of an 80 dB sound wave is 4 times greater than the intensity of a 40 dB sound wave.