Intensity level (sound level) is the logarithmic measure of the intensity of a sound relative to a reference intensity . It is measured in decibels (dB).
Formula derivation:
L = 10 \log \left( \frac{I}{I_0} \right)
10. Explain the difference in the speed of sound in different mediums. What are different properties of a medium that affect the speed of sound?
The speed of sound depends on the density and elasticity of the medium.
Speed in different media:
Solids: Fastest (Steel ≈ 5000 m/s)
Liquids: Slower than solids (Water ≈ 1480 m/s)
Gases: Slowest (Air ≈ 340 m/s)
Factors affecting speed:
Density: Higher density usually reduces speed.
Elasticity: More elastic materials allow faster sound travel.
Temperature: Higher temperature increases the speed of sound in gases.
Humidity: More water vapor increases speed in air.