What is the loudness level of normal conversation in decibels?

Study for the AP Psychology Sensation and Perception Test. Includes multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your AP exam!

The loudness level of normal conversation is typically around 50 decibels. This range is considered comfortable for human hearing and reflects the average sound level produced by people talking in close proximity to each other.

In understanding sound levels, 0 decibels represents the threshold of hearing, while sounds around 50 decibels, like normal conversation, are easily understood without straining to listen. Sounds above this level, such as 75 decibels (which is closer to the sound of traffic or a vacuum cleaner), can start to become irritating or potentially damaging to hearing with prolonged exposure. Thus, the understanding of the decibel scale helps clarify why normal conversation is at approximately 50 decibels, making this the most accurate choice.

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