Sound Intensity Calculator
Calculate sound intensity level (dB) from acoustic power and area, or convert between intensity (W/m²) and dB SPL.
Sound Intensity Calculator
Total acoustic power output of the source
Distance from the point source
Result
Enter values and click Calculate
Level on dB scale (0–194 dB)
0 dB (Threshold)
120 dB (Pain)
194 dB (Max)
Common Sound Levels
| Source | dB SPL | Intensity (W/m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Threshold of hearing | 0 | 1.0×10⁻¹² |
| Rustling leaves | 20 | 1.0×10⁻¹⁰ |
| Quiet library | 40 | 1.0×10⁻⁸ |
| Normal conversation | 60 | 1.0×10⁻⁶ |
| Busy traffic | 80 | 1.0×10⁻⁴ |
| Lawn mower | 90 | 1.0×10⁻³ |
| Rock concert | 110 | 1.0×10⁻¹ |
| Threshold of pain | 120–130 | 1–10 |
| Jet engine (30 m) | 150 | 1.0×10³ |
Summary
Calculate sound intensity level (dB) from acoustic power and area, or convert between intensity (W/m²) and dB SPL.
How it works
- Choose a calculation mode: Power → dB, Intensity → dB, or dB → Intensity.
- Enter the required values (power in watts, distance in meters, or intensity in W/m²).
- Click Calculate to see the result instantly.
- Use the reference table to compare your result with common sound levels.
- Results are computed using the standard formula: L = 10 × log₁₀(I / I₀).
Use cases
- Estimate dB levels from a speaker or loudspeaker at a given distance.
- Check whether a work environment exceeds safe noise exposure limits.
- Convert measured intensity readings to dB SPL for comparison.
- Understand how sound level drops with distance (inverse-square law).
- Study acoustic physics for exams or professional certifications.
- Verify engineering calculations for noise control projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: 2026-05-23 ·
Reviewed by Nham Vu