How is amplitude measured?

Study for the TExES Music EC-12 (177) Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Amplitude refers to the magnitude of a wave or signal, which is an important aspect of sound in music. It is commonly measured in decibels (dB), which provide a logarithmic scale for quantifying the loudness or intensity of sound. Decibels express the ratio between a measured sound pressure level and a reference level, making it an effective unit for understanding how sound varies in terms of loudness.

Hertz is a unit used to measure frequency, indicating how many cycles per second a sound wave completes. Volts measure electric potential or electromotive force, and Pascals are a unit of pressure. While these units are relevant in the context of sound and physical principles, they do not specifically apply to the measurement of amplitude as effectively as decibels do. Thus, decibels are the correct and appropriate unit to describe the amplitude of sound waves.

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