Enter the sound levels in decibels (dB) and corresponding time intervals in seconds into the calculator to determine the equivalent continuous sound level, known as Leq. The Leq represents the steady sound level that, over the same period of time, conveys the same sound energy as the varying levels.
Leq Noise Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the Leq noise level:
Leq = 10 * log10(Σ(ti * 10^{(Li/10)}) / T)Variables:
- Leq is the equivalent continuous sound level (dB)
- ti is the time interval (seconds)
- Li is the sound level during the time interval ti (dB)
- T is the total time (seconds)
To calculate Leq, sum the products of each time interval and the corresponding sound level converted to linear scale (10^(Li/10)), then divide by the total time and convert back to a logarithmic scale using the decibel formula.
What is Leq?
Leq, or equivalent continuous sound level, is a measure used in acoustics to describe the overall level of a varying noise environment over a period of time. It is a single value that represents the same sound energy as the varying levels during the same time period. Leq is commonly used in environmental noise assessment, workplace noise evaluations, and in the design of noise control measures.
How to Calculate Leq?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Leq noise level:
- First, list the sound levels (Li) in decibels (dB) for each time interval.
- Next, list the corresponding time intervals (ti) in seconds.
- Ensure that the number of sound levels matches the number of time intervals.
- Use the formula above to calculate the Leq.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Sound levels (Li) = 85 dB, 90 dB, 95 dB
Time intervals (ti) = 120 seconds, 150 seconds, 180 seconds
