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.
 

FAQ: How Does Distance Affect Sound Pressure Levels?

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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.

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