Intensity and Power of isotropic sound

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the sound intensity and power intercepted by a microphone from an isotropic sound source emitting at 3000 Hz and 34 watts. The user initially attempts to use the formula for intensity but realizes a misunderstanding regarding the area calculation, noting the need to consider the spherical surface area at a distance of 158 meters. They suggest that determining the microphone's area as a percentage of the total spherical surface area could help estimate the power available for detection. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly applying the formulas and understanding the geometry of sound propagation. Accurate calculations are essential for determining the microphone's performance in this scenario.
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Homework Statement


An electronic point source emits sound isotropically at a frequency of 3000 Hz and a power of 34 watts. A small microphone has an area of 0.74 cm2 and is located 158 meters from the point source.
a) What is the sound intensity at the microphone ?

b) What is the power intercepted by the microphone?


Homework Equations


I=(power)/(area)
Avg power=(1/2)(mu)(v)(w^2)A^2 (not sure what all these mean)


The Attempt at a Solution


I tried Intensity=(power)/(area) but that was wrong. I had converted the area to m^2 too…any ideas?
 
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At 158 meters don't you have the surface of a sphere that has a radius of 158 meters?

Maybe if you know what % of this area that the area of the microphone represents on the sphere, you might get an idea of how much of the original 34 watts that's pushing the air around at the speaker is available for detecting?

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/acoustic/invsqs.html#c1
 
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