
Farts produce a wide range of sounds. Some are sharp and squeaky, while others can burst out like a car backfiring—and some don’t make a sound at all. The loudness of a fart is influenced by how much gas is in your intestines and the muscles around the anus.
Farts occur when your body releases gases. Some of this gas is from the air you swallow while eating and breathing, while other parts are produced as your body processes food for energy. The bacteria in your gut assist with digestion too, releasing various gases as they work. These gases travel through your large intestine and eventually reach the rectum, where they are expelled as farts: some quiet, others loud enough to shake the walls.
The sound of a fart is influenced by the amount of gas built up and how quickly it is released. It also depends on the tension of the sphincter muscles that encircle the anus, helping to keep it closed. Together, these elements cause vibrations as the gas forces its way out. If the sphincter is relaxed, your fart will likely be soft—pffft! But if the muscles are tight (like when you're trying not to fart), you might hear a squeak, toot, rumble, or even a roar.
Now that you know why some farts are loud while others are silent, discover how much farts actually weigh and explore some fun slang words to use when 'fart' just doesn’t cut it.
