Noise Measurements and the dB.
Abstract
This Memorandum presents the author's opinion that the conventional use of the dB in studies of acoustic noise can obscure and complicate simple relationships and lead to the possibility of error because of misunderstandings of the nature of logarithms and because the order of the numbers involved is concealed by the compressed scale. Examples of errors and inaccuracies are given, and some cases where consideration of noise in terms of rms pressure would be simpler, or would lead to better understanding of the processes involved, are discussed. It is suggested that, although the dB may be a convenient unit for many purposes, more emphasis on the physical nature of noise would help in the interpretation of phenomena and prevent some of the confusions that arise, especially in dealing with the general public. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA093461
Entities
People
- K. R. Maslen
Organizations
- Royal Aircraft Establishment