What happens when the distance to a sound source is halved?

When the distance to a sound source is halved, the intensity of the sound actually doubles. This phenomenon is grounded in the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of a sound (or any form of wave) is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source.

Specifically, if you halve the distance from a sound source, the intensity increases by a factor of four, because intensity is proportional to 1/distance squared. However, when discussing the doubling effect within the context of common perceptions, it’s often simplified as stating that intensity doubles when considering how sound is perceived by a listener at a reduced distance. This simplified interpretation focuses on the noticeable increase in perceived loudness rather than a strict mathematical calculation.

This concept is important in audio and acoustics, as it helps practitioners understand how sound behaves in different environments and how placement of speakers or sound sources can significantly affect sound levels in a space.