Ask A Scientist© Physics Archive

Question:  We are a 5th grade class and we would like information about decibel
levels. Do you have a list of decibel levels for common sounds? Such as voice,
airplane, etc?
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Threshold of hearing.....................0 dB
Outdoors, no people or traffic..........20 dB
Background noise in a library...........40 dB
Ordinary speaking voice.................60 dB
Heavy traffic...........................85 dB
Power lawnmower up close................90 dB
Motorcycle (rider)......................90 dB
Chainsaw...............................100 dB
Rock music at concert..................110 dB
Jet plane takeoff at 100 yards.........120 dB
Threshold of pain......................140 dB

These noise levels are approximate, and depend on many factors.
Noise levels of 85 dB and above are considered potentially
damaging over time; for example, workers are not allowed to spend
more than 30 minutes per day at 110 dB -- the level of a rock
concert!

gary e myers
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