Compare intensities:
80db vs 60db

Intensity is defined to be the power per unit area carried by a wave. Power is the rate at which energy is transferred by the wave. In equation form, intensity I is

where, P is the power through an area A.

The SI unit for I is {W/m}^{2}.

Sound intensity levels are quoted in decibels (dB) much more often than sound intensities in watts per meter squared.

The sound intensity level β in decibels of a sound having an intensity I in watts per meter squared is defined to be

where I₀ = 10⁻¹² W/m²

80dB sound intensity is greater than 60dB sound intensity.

80dB sound intensity can be found in loud radio and classroom lecture whereas 60dB sound intensity is the normal conversation.