Decibel levels measure the intensity of sound. The decibel scale is logarithmic, meaning that an increase of 10 decibels represents a tenfold increase in sound intensity. For example, a whisper is around 30 decibels, while normal conversation is about 60 decibels. Sounds above 85 decibels can potentially cause hearing damage with prolonged exposure. Different environments produce varying decibel levels. A quiet library may register around 40 decibels, while a busy street can reach 80 decibels. Concerts and loud machinery can exceed 100 decibels, making it essential to protect your hearing in such situations.