Final answer:
To find the decibel level of normal conversation with an intensity of 10^-6 watts per square inch, the logarithmic model is applied, which results in 60 dB. However, this value does not match the provided options, indicating potential issues with unit conversion or a typo in the question.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the decibel level of a normal conversation with intensity 10^-6 watts per square inch, we can use the logarithmic model for sound intensity level, β(dB). The reference intensity I0 is 10^-12 W/m², which corresponds to the threshold of human hearing, or 0 decibels. The formula to calculate decibels is β(dB) = 10 log10(I/I0).
First, we need to convert the intensity from watts per square inch to watts per meter squared. Since this information is not provided, we'll assume standard conversion factors would apply. However, for the sake of this problem and considering that we do not have the exact conversion factor in the provided data, we will focus on the exponent part of the intensity value, which is -6, and we'll compare it to the reference value, which has an exponent of -12.
Using the formula, we have:
β(dB) = 10 log10(10^-6 / 10^-12) = 10 log10(10^6) = 10 × 6 = 60 dB.
However, since none of the options provided (10 dB, 20 dB, 30 dB, 40 dB) match the computed answer, it is possible that there is a discrepancy due to unit conversion or a typo in the question.