Question

Why does the speed of sound differ in different media? Arrange the speed of sound in solids, liquids, and gases in the increasing order.

Answer 1

1. The speed of sound depends on the density and also on the elasticity of the medium through which it travels.
2. Speed of sound is maximum in a solid medium because the molecules in solids are closely packed and minimum in gases.
3. This close arrangement of molecules allows sound waves to travel more quickly through them.
4. Hence, the speed of sound is maximum in solids than in liquids and gases.
5. The increasing order of speed of sound is gases < liquids < solids.