Sound Intensity Level Converter
Enter sound intensity I and calculate Lᵢ = 10 log₁₀(I / I₀), using I₀ = 10⁻¹² W/m².
A QUICK WALKTHROUGH
How to use this tool
- Enter a positive intensity in W/m².
- Calculate the level relative to I₀ = 10⁻¹² W/m².
- Read the result in dB; this is sound intensity level, not dB SPL.
Reference intensity
The fixed reference is I₀ = 10⁻¹² watts per square metre. The tool uses sound intensity, power per area, rather than sound pressure.
Positive values only
Sound intensity must be greater than zero because the logarithm is undefined for zero or negative values.
GOOD TO KNOW
Common questions
What does the result measure?
It is sound intensity level in decibels, calculated from acoustic intensity. It is not sound pressure level (dB SPL).
What formula is used?
Lᵢ = 10 log₁₀(I / I₀), with I₀ = 10⁻¹² W/m².
Can I enter zero?
No. Enter a finite positive intensity in W/m².