In which of the following is the speed of sound greatest?
A)air
B)water
C)a vacuum
D)wood
E)steel

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The speed of sound in a medium depends on its stiffness and density. Steel, being a solid metal, has a high stiffness and density which leads to a high speed of sound. In air, the molecules are less dense and have less stiffness compared to steel, so the speed of sound is much lower. Water has a higher density compared to air but has less stiffness, resulting in a lower speed of sound. A vacuum does not have a medium for sound to travel through, so sound cannot travel in a vacuum. Wood has a lower stiffness and density compared to steel, resulting in a lower speed of sound.

In Which of the Following Is the Speed of Sound