alleryStart learning →How does the speed of sound in solids and liquids compare with that in gases?
AIt is generally lower than in gases
BIt is exactly the same as in gases
CIt is generally greater than in gases
DIt is zero in solids and liquids
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. It is generally greater than in gases
1. Liquids and solids are relatively rigid and very difficult to compress.
2. Sound travels faster the more rigid the medium is.
3. So the speed of sound in liquids and solids is generally greater than in gases.
4. This is why a distant train can be heard through the rail before it is heard through the air.
_Source: OpenStax Physics (high school, CC BY 4.0), Ch 14 "Sound", section The Speed of Sound_
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