Which property of sound determines its loudness?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: Amplitude
Explanation: The loudness of sound depends on the amplitude of the sound wave.
Amplitude is the maximum displacement of particles in a medium from their mean position.
Greater amplitude → more energy in the wave → louder sound
Smaller amplitude → less energy → softer sound
Additional Key Points:
Loudness is measured in decibels (dB)
Human ear can generally hear from 0 dB (threshold of hearing) to around 120–130 dB (pain level)
Examples:
Whisper ≈ low amplitude
Rock concert ≈ high amplitude
Sound intensity increases with square of amplitude
Potential Exam-Oriented Questions & Answers:
Question: What happens when amplitude of sound increases?
Answer: Loudness increases
Question: Which wave property remains unchanged in different media?
Answer: Frequency