Math Problem Statement

Find the decibel level of noise with an intensity of I = 10^-7 W/m^2 using the formula D = 10 log(I / 10^-12).

Solution

The given formula for loudness level in decibels (DD) is:

D=10log10(I1012)D = 10 \log_{10} \left( \frac{I}{10^{-12}} \right)

Where II is the intensity of the sound in watts per square meter. In the problem, I=107W/m2I = 10^{-7} \, \text{W/m}^2.

Step-by-step Calculation:

  1. Substitute I=107I = 10^{-7} into the formula: D=10log10(1071012)D = 10 \log_{10} \left( \frac{10^{-7}}{10^{-12}} \right)

  2. Simplify the fraction: 1071012=107(12)=105\frac{10^{-7}}{10^{-12}} = 10^{-7 - (-12)} = 10^{5}

  3. The equation becomes: D=10log10(105)D = 10 \log_{10} \left( 10^{5} \right)

  4. Simplify using the logarithmic rule log10(10x)=x\log_{10}(10^x) = x: D=105=50D = 10 \cdot 5 = 50

Final Answer:

The decibel level is: 50dB\boxed{50 \, \text{dB}}

Would you like further explanation or have questions on logarithmic properties?


Here are five follow-up questions you might explore:

  1. What is the relationship between sound intensity and decibel levels?
  2. How does doubling the intensity affect the decibel level?
  3. Why is 101210^{-12} used as the reference intensity in this formula?
  4. How do logarithmic scales help in measuring sound?
  5. Can decibel levels be negative? If so, under what conditions?

Tip: Always check the units of intensity when working with decibel equations to ensure consistency.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Logarithms
Sound Intensity
Decibel Scale

Formulas

D = 10 log(I / 10^-12)

Theorems

Logarithmic Properties

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12