Decibels (dB) are a unit of measurement used to express the intensity of sound. The scale is logarithmic, meaning that an increase of 10 dB represents a tenfold increase in sound intensity. For example, a sound measured at 30 dB is ten times more intense than one at 20 dB. Common sounds include a whisper at 30 dB, normal conversation at 60 dB, and a rock concert at around 110 dB. Decibels can also measure other types of waves, such as radio waves and light waves, but they are most commonly associated with sound. Understanding decibels helps people recognize safe listening levels and avoid hearing damage. Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 dB can lead to hearing loss.