Wave propagation in media: In which medium does sound travel at the fastest speed? Compare typical speeds in gases, liquids, and solids; assume standard conditions and homogeneous media.

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Wave propagation in media: In which medium does sound travel at the fastest speed?  Compare typical speeds in gases, liquids, and solids; assume standard conditions and homogeneous media.

Accepted Answer

Given facts Sound requires a medium. Its speed v ≈ √(elastic modulus / density). Reasoning Solids have much higher bulk/shear moduli than liquids or gases, so despite higher density, v is largest in solids (e.g., steel ~5000–6000 m/s > water ~1500 m…

Wave propagation in media: In which medium does sound travel at the fastest speed? Compare typical speeds in gases, liquids, and solids; assume standard conditions and homogeneous media.

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