Solving Sound Intensities - Hearing Threshold in W/m^2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the intensity corresponding to the threshold of hearing for individuals exposed to high decibel levels of music. The problem involves understanding sound intensity levels measured in decibels (dB) and their relation to hearing sensitivity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to determine the intensity of sound at the threshold of hearing based on a reduction in hearing sensitivity. Some question the relevance of certain details provided in the problem, such as the exposure duration and the number of subjects. Others express uncertainty about the original hearing sensitivity and whether it should be assumed or estimated.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the problem with various interpretations being discussed. Some participants have offered insights into the relationship between decibel levels and intensity calculations, while others are seeking clarification on the assumptions that need to be made regarding the original hearing sensitivity.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the lack of information regarding the original hearing sensitivity at 4000 Hz, which is critical for solving the problem. There is also mention of the standard threshold of hearing being at 0 dB, which may influence the calculations discussed.

Huskies213
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Does anyone know how to solve this ?

A group of people were exposed to 114 dB music for 60 minutes. Eleven of the 20 subjects showed a 17 dB reduction in hearing sensitivity at 4000 Hz. What is the intensity corresponding to the threshold of hearing for these people ? ( in W/m^2)

thanks
 
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Huskies213 said:
Does anyone know how to solve this ?

A group of people were exposed to 114 dB music for 60 minutes. Eleven of the 20 subjects showed a 17 dB reduction in hearing sensitivity at 4000 Hz. What is the intensity corresponding to the threshold of hearing for these people ? ( in W/m^2)
The following information appears to be irrelevant:
"A group of people were exposed to 114 dB music for 60 minutes."
"Eleven of the 20 subjects"

We also do not know what their original hearing sensitivity at 4000 Hz was. People's hearing sensitivity varies. Are we supposed to guess?

Please check the question and provide all the information.

AM
 
Re

Threshold = 10^-12 ...thanks for the help!
 
Huskies213 said:
Does anyone know how to solve this ?

A group of people were exposed to 114 dB music for 60 minutes. Eleven of the 20 subjects showed a 17 dB reduction in hearing sensitivity at 4000 Hz. What is the intensity corresponding to the threshold of hearing for these people ? ( in W/m^2)

thanks

Normally, the threshold of hearing is at 0dB (so I= 10^-12 W/m^2). I assume that " a 17 dB reduction of hearing sensitivity" means that now their threshold of hearing is at 17dB. It is straightforward to calculate the intensity this corresponds to ([itex]\beta = 10 log({I \over 10^{-12} W/m^2})[/itex]...the sound level is 17dB so you can solve for I). So if a sound wave has an intensity below the value calculated, they won't perceive the sound.

Patrick
 

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