Calculating Decibel Increase to Reach Pain Level

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the number of callers needed to reach a specific sound intensity level in decibels, transitioning from 90 dB to 120 dB in a pig-calling contest context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between decibel levels and sound intensity, with one attempting to apply a multiplication approach based on decibel increments. Others question the understanding of relevant equations and definitions related to sound intensity.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring how to correctly apply the concept of decibels and sound intensity. There is an emphasis on identifying the necessary equations and definitions to progress further.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes the importance of listing relevant equations, suggesting that the original poster may be missing critical information needed to solve the problem.

ryty
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Homework Statement


In a pig-calling contest, a caller produces a sound with an intensity level of 90 dB. How many such callers would be required to reach the pain level of 120 dB?


Homework Equations


i don't know


The Attempt at a Solution


The way I understood it from my book, for every multiple of ten increase in decibels, you have to multiply by that number, so i multiplied 1 by 3, to get 3, but that isn't right.
 
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No, for every factor of ten increase in the sound intensity, you add 10 dB.
 
So how do i find how many callers it takes to go from 90-120dB
 
That's why listing the relevant equations is important, rather than just saying "I don't know." What is the *definition* of sound intensity in decibels? That equation is certainly given in your book, and is obviously a piece of information that you need to know before you can begin to answer questions about sound intensities in dB. Post that equation, and tell me if you are able to see, from it, how to proceed. If not, I can provide further hints.
 

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