Question

Speed of sound is maximum in which medium?

Answer 1

Explanation

1. Sound is a longitudinal wave.
2. It propagates by vibrating the particles present in the medium.
3. So the speed of sound depends on the density of the medium through which the sound wave is travelling.
4. The speed of the sound is directly proportional to the density of the medium.

Solids

1. The molecules of solid are closely packed.
2. So the molecules of solid are closer to each other so they will collide with each other very easily.
3. So in solid, there will be less resistance for the sound to propagate.

Liquids

1. The molecules of the liquid are loosely packed compared to the solid.
2. So it will provide more resistance than solid for the sound to propagate.

Gases

1. The molecules of gases are loosely packed compared to liquid.
2. So it will provide more resistance than liquid for the sound to propagate.

Vacuum

1. In a vacuum, there is a particle present.
2. So there will be no vibration.
3. Hence in a vacuum sound waves cannot propagate.

It is clear resistance for the sound to propagate in a solid is less than in the other three mediums.

So the velocity of sound in the medium of Vacuum$<$medium of Gas$<$medium of Liquid $<$medium of solid.

Hence the speed of sound is maximum in a solid medium.