Enter the initial and final frequencies along with their corresponding levels in decibels (dB) to calculate the change in level per decade of frequency. This calculator helps in understanding the rate of change in sound or signal level over a logarithmic frequency scale.
dB Per Decade Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the dB per decade:
dB/Decade = (Final Level – Initial Level) / log10(Final Frequency / Initial Frequency)
Variables:
- Initial Frequency (Hz) – The starting frequency of the signal.
- Final Frequency (Hz) – The ending frequency of the signal.
- Initial Level (dB) – The sound or signal level at the initial frequency.
- Final Level (dB) – The sound or signal level at the final frequency.
To calculate dB per decade, subtract the initial level from the final level and divide the result by the logarithm (base 10) of the final frequency divided by the initial frequency.
What is dB Per Decade?
dB per decade is a measure of how much the level of a signal or sound changes over a tenfold increase in frequency. It is commonly used in audio engineering, electronics, and acoustics to describe the behavior of filters, amplifiers, and other frequency-dependent systems. A positive dB per decade indicates an increase in level with frequency, while a negative value indicates a decrease.
How to Calculate dB Per Decade?
The following steps outline how to calculate the dB per decade:
- First, determine the initial frequency (Hz) and the corresponding initial level (dB).
- Next, determine the final frequency (Hz) and the corresponding final level (dB).
- Use the formula dB/Decade = (Final Level – Initial Level) / log10(Final Frequency / Initial Frequency).
- Finally, calculate the dB per decade.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Initial Frequency (Hz) = 100
Final Frequency (Hz) = 1000
Initial Level (dB) = 20
Final Level (dB) = 40
