Sound Intensity Level Calculator
Calculate the sound intensity level in decibels: L = 10 * log10(I / I0), where I0 = 1e-12 W/m2 is the threshold of hearing.
Sound Intensity Level
90.00 dB
Fórmula
## Sound Intensity Level The decibel scale expresses sound intensity relative to the threshold of human hearing. ### Formula **L = 10 log10(I / I0)** - *I* = sound intensity (W/m2) - *I0* = 10^-12 W/m2 (reference threshold) Every 10 dB increase corresponds to a tenfold increase in intensity. Normal conversation is about 60 dB; a rock concert about 110 dB.
Ejemplo Resuelto
Sound intensity of 0.001 W/m2.
- 01L = 10 log10(I / I0)
- 02L = 10 log10(0.001 / 1e-12)
- 03L = 10 log10(1e9)
- 04L = 10 * 9 = 90 dB
Preguntas Frecuentes
Why use a logarithmic scale?
Human hearing spans an enormous range of intensities (a factor of about 10^12). The logarithmic decibel scale compresses this into a manageable range of about 0 to 120 dB.
What is the threshold of pain?
About 120 to 130 dB, corresponding to 1 to 10 W/m2. Prolonged exposure above 85 dB can cause hearing damage.
How does distance affect intensity level?
For a point source, intensity decreases as 1/r^2. Doubling the distance reduces the level by about 6 dB.
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