Right, the intensity of the sound is 1E-8 W/m^2... so is that also the ratio of sound intensity just outside the plugs?
The question asks for the ratio of the sound intensity just outside the plugs to the intensity reaching your eardrums.
we arn't learning about logs in this class. It's a physics of sound and music course and isn't math based so we only learn basics... So, no. Unfortunately I don't know how to use logs in this case. Is there another way?
[b]1. When you buy earplugs at the store, they have a "dB rating". What it tells you is the reduction of SIL that the plugs will provide, if properly worn. Suppose you're helping some friends, working the stage at a rock concert wearing earplugs that provide a reduction of 40 dB. What is the...