How is relative power typically measured?

Relative power is primarily measured in decibels (dB). The decibel scale is a logarithmic unit that expresses the ratio of a value to a reference level, allowing for a standardized way to discuss power levels in systems involving sound, electronics, or telecommunications. This makes it particularly useful in the field of data communication and signal processing, where conveying differences in power levels relative to one another is often more important than knowing their absolute values.

Using dB allows technicians to easily compare signal strengths, identify losses, and assess the performance of various components within a system. For instance, an increase or decrease in power can be expressed in dB, which simplifies the comprehension of changes in system performance. This context is particularly valuable in troubleshooting and optimizing network functionality.

In contrast, the other choices represent different physical quantities. Watts measure absolute power, volts denote electrical potential, and ohms indicate resistance. While these units are critical in their respective areas, they do not provide the relative comparison of power levels that dB offers, thus making dB the correct answer for measuring relative power.