Question

How is the speed of sound in air affected by moisture present in air?

• A. no effect
• B. decreases with the increase in presence of moisture in air.
• C. increases with the increase in presence of moisture in air.
• D. data insufficient

Answer 1

The correct option is C increases with the increase in presence of moisture in air.

Moisture content in the air would be expected to increase the speed of sound slightly because the molecular weight of water vapor is 18 compared to 28.95 for dry air.
Lesser the density of the medium, higher the speed of the sound through it. Hence, speed of sound is inversely proportional to the density of the medium.