What dB loss is typically associated with spherical spreading?

In understanding the loss associated with spherical spreading, it is important to recognize the principles of sound propagation in three-dimensional space. When sound radiates outwards from a point source in an ideal environment, it spreads out uniformly in all directions, creating a sphere of sound waves. As the sound moves away from the source, the energy of that sound is spread over an increasingly larger surface area.

The loss in sound intensity due to spherical spreading can be quantified using the concept of the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of a sound wave is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source. Specifically, for every doubling of the distance from the source, there is a reduction in sound intensity of 6 dB. This means that at a distance twice as far, the intensity has decreased to one-quarter of its original value.

Thus, when we consider the typical dB loss associated with spherical spreading over a standard distance, it is 6 dB. This figure reflects the nature of sound spreading in a three-dimensional medium, where the volume of the sphere increases with the square of the radius.

In this context, the choice indicating 6 dB accurately reflects the expected loss due to spherical spreading. Other options represent different levels of loss