A Microphone in the Ocean Is Sensitive to the Sounds

question 61

Short Answer

A microphone in the ocean is sensitive to the sounds emitted by porpoises. To produce a usable signal, sound waves striking the microphone must have an intensity of 1.02 × 10−¹¹ W/m². If porpoises emit sounds with a power of 0.049 9 W, how far away can a porpoise be and still be heard? Disregard absorption of sound waves by the water.

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Definitions:

Wire Mesh Mothers

A term from Harry Harlow's research on attachment, where infant monkeys showed attachment behaviors towards surrogate mothers made of wire mesh.

Harlow

A reference to Harry Harlow, an American psychologist known for his research on maternal-separation, dependency needs, and social isolation experiments on rhesus monkeys, highlighting the importance of caregiving and companionship.

Flavors

Distinctive tastes and aromas of food or drink, produced by various compounds.

Sweetness

A quality of having a pleasant or sugary taste.