Is there a formula to predict the loudness of an impact in deciBels?

[Ralphonsicus]

The question really explains the primary question but I have another quick one as well.

How come sound isn't measured in Joules if it is a form of energy?

 

[Naty1]

How come sound isn't measured in Joules if it is a form of energy?

[I did not read all the links below fully..if you don't get as answer you like, read them for formulas... one issue and obstacle is different materials make different sounds...feather versus pillow versus water versus metals ...landing on drums, wood,...you get the idea...]

db is NOT energy...that would be SOUND INTENSITY.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_energy_density


db is a ratio (no units) relative to a standard:

Sound pressure level (SPL) or sound level is a logarithmic measure of the effective sound pressure of a sound relative to a reference value. It is measured in decibels (dB) above a standard reference level. The commonly used "zero" reference sound pressure in air is 20 µPa RMS, which is usually considered the threshold of human hearing (at 1 kHz).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_pressure