The Physics Classroom

Waves, Sound and Light: Sound and Music

Sound and Music: Audio Guided Solution

Problem 7:

The intensity of sound waves decreases as the distance from the source of sound increases. The relationship between intensity (I) and distance (d) is an inverse square relationship which follows the equation I = P/(4•π•R2) where P is the power of the sound source, usually expressed in Watts. Jake recently purchased a stereo system for his basement recreation room. Determine the maximum intensity of the sound waves at the following distances from his 120-Watt main speaker.
a. 1.0 meter
b. 2.0 meter
c. 3.0 meter

Audio Guided Solution


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a. 9.5 W/m2
b. 2.4 W/m2
c. 1.1 W/m2

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