Logarithms and Intensity-HELP

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In summary, logarithms are mathematical functions that are used to solve problems involving exponential growth and decay. They are also used to measure the relative strength or magnitude of a quantity, such as intensity. Logarithms affect our perception of intensity because our ability to detect small changes decreases as the intensity increases. In scientific experiments, logarithms are used to accurately quantify the magnitude of a stimulus, even if it varies over a wide range. They can be negative and are often used to express very small or very large values. Decibels, a unit of measurement for intensity, follow a logarithmic scale, allowing for accurate comparison of intensities that vary greatly.
  • #1
yoshiba
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Logarithms and Intensity---HELP ASAP!

Homework Statement


a)What is the intensity of sound at 123 dB?

b)Compare it to that of a whisper at 20 dB.



Homework Equations



something with logarithms??



The Attempt at a Solution



a) 10^123
 
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  • #2
Inensity is equivalent to power and so the ratio of power is
L = 10* log * (P1/P0)

Where Log is the base 10 log ( labbled Log on your calculator)
 
  • #3
so for a) I would do:
123=10*log*(P1/P0)
10^123=(P1/P0)^10
(10^123)^(1/10)=(P1/P0)

is that correct?
 

Related to Logarithms and Intensity-HELP

1. What are logarithms and how are they related to intensity?

Logarithms are mathematical functions that are used to solve problems involving exponential growth and decay. In the context of intensity, logarithms are used to measure the relative strength or magnitude of a quantity. By taking the logarithm of an intensity value, we can convert it into a more manageable and meaningful number.

2. How do logarithms affect the perception of intensity?

Logarithms are used to measure the perception of intensity in the human sensory system. Our perception of intensity follows a logarithmic scale, meaning that our ability to detect small changes in intensity decreases as the intensity increases. This is why we use logarithms to convert intensity values into a more accurate representation of our perception.

3. How are logarithms used in scientific experiments to measure intensity?

In scientific experiments, logarithms are often used to measure the intensity of a stimulus. This is because logarithms allow us to accurately quantify the magnitude of a stimulus, even if it varies over a wide range. This is particularly useful in experiments where the intensity of a stimulus needs to be controlled and compared between different conditions.

4. Can logarithms be negative and how does this affect intensity?

Yes, logarithms can be negative. In the context of intensity, a negative logarithm indicates a very low intensity value. This does not necessarily mean that the intensity is negative, but rather that it is very close to zero. Logarithms are often used to express very small or very large values in a more manageable form.

5. What is the relationship between decibels and logarithms in measuring intensity?

Decibels (dB) are a unit of measurement used to express the relative intensity of sound or other physical quantities. The decibel scale is logarithmic, meaning that a change of 10 dB represents a tenfold increase or decrease in intensity. This allows us to accurately measure and compare intensities that vary over a wide range.

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