Question

Which of the following scales are not linear in nature?
(i) Decibel
(ii) Richter
(iii) Meter

A. (i) only
B. (ii) and (iii)
C. (ii) only
D. (i) and (ii)

Answer 1

Hint: A scale in which there is equal division for equal values then it is known as a linear. A simple example of this is a ruler.

Complete answer:Decibel and Richter scales are not linear in nature.

Decibel is a logarithmic scale and it is used to express the ratio between two values of a physical quantity. These physical quantities are often power or intensity and one of these physical quantities is taken as a reference value. In such a case the decibel can be used to express the absolute level of the physical quantity.

Richter scale is also not a linear scale. Let us take the example of two earthquakes. One was of the magnitude 8 whereas one was of the magnitude 4. If the richter scale was a linear scale then the earthquake with magnitude 8 would have been twice as destructive as the earthquake of magnitude 4. However this is not true and such an event does not happen. An earthquake of magnitude 8 is not twice as destructive as an earthquake of magnitude 4.

Meter scale is a linear scale.

Therefore the correct answer is option D.

Note: Non linear scales are those sales which have adjacent graduations that are not equivalent. The mechanical instruments like springs and levers are done by analogue scales whereas electronic scales use electronic load sensors and the digital signal is displayed on LCD or LED.