How Does Distance Affect Sound Pressure Levels?

In summary, to find the free field sound pressure level at a radius of 6m from an omidirectional source with a sound pressure level of 77 dB at 1.6m, you will first need to determine the reference level and the actual pressure corresponding to 77 dB. Then, using the formula p1/p2 = r1/r2, you can calculate the pressure at 6m and convert it to dB to get the answer of 65.5 dB.
  • #1
starrlets
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Homework Statement


An omidirectional source produces a free field sound pressure level of 77 dB at a radius of 1.6 m from the centre of the source. What free field sound pressure level in dB does it produce at a radius of 6 m from the centre of the sound source?
Answer: 65.5 dB



Homework Equations


p1/p2 = r1/r2


The Attempt at a Solution


p1/p2 = r2/r1
77/p2 = 6/1.6
3.75p2 = 77
p2 = 20.5 dB
 
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  • #2


Your formula is for pressure (in Pa). Sound pressure level is a log of the ratio of sound pressure to a reference level. You'll have to look up what the reference level is, find the actual pressure corresponding to 77dB, use your formula to get the pressure at 6m and then figure out how many dB that corresponds to.
 

1. What is acoustics physics?

Acoustics physics is the study of sound and its behavior in various mediums, such as air, water, and solids. It involves understanding the properties of sound waves, how they are produced, and how they interact with their surroundings.

2. What are some practical applications of acoustics physics?

Acoustics physics has many practical applications, including designing concert halls and other performance spaces for optimal sound quality, developing hearing aids and other audio devices, and studying underwater acoustics for marine research and navigation.

3. How are sound waves different from other types of waves?

Sound waves are mechanical, longitudinal waves that require a medium to travel through, unlike electromagnetic waves which can travel through a vacuum. They also have a lower frequency and longer wavelength compared to other types of waves.

4. What factors affect the speed of sound?

The speed of sound is affected by the properties of the medium it is traveling through, such as density, temperature, and elasticity. In general, sound travels faster in denser, warmer, and more elastic mediums.

5. How do acoustics physics principles contribute to noise reduction?

Acoustics physics principles are used in designing noise control measures, such as sound barriers and soundproof materials, to reduce the amount of sound that is transmitted from one area to another. Understanding how sound waves behave can help identify the most effective methods for reducing noise levels.

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