Final answer:
The subject matter involves the physics of sound and measurements using decibels, which applies to the field of Physics and is likely covered in High School curriculum. Calculations use logarithmic equations to determine the sound intensity levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question is asking to define the subject related to the description of the decibel reading of a balloon popping, calculations involving logarithms, and the properties of sound. The concept of decibels and the given examples involve calculations based on logarithmic scales, which are related to the intensity of sound. The correct scientific subject here is Physics, and this material is typically covered at the High School level.
Decibels (dB) are a logarithmic unit used to measure sound intensity. When a student asks how to calculate the sound intensity level in decibels using the formula β(dB) = 10 log₁₀ (I/Io), you are dealing with concepts of acoustics, a branch of physics. The problem solving strategy suggests the use of properties of logarithms to solve for the difference in sound levels in decibels, which demonstrates the application of mathematical tools within the context of physics.
The decibel gets its name from being a tenth (deci-) of a Bel, which itself is a unit named after Alexander Graham Bell. Therefore, it is linked to the measurement of sound intensities and their ratios.