Speed of sound is the simplest concept of physics which simply depicts the speed at which sound waves are translated into various media.

Speed of sound is how far the sound waves will cover in a given medium within a specified time. The medium through which the sound will travel may either be air, water, or even a solid. The properties of the medium also include temperature, pressure, and density.

Formula 

The formula for the speed of sound is,

Where

P = pressure

ρ = density

γ = Ratio of specific heat.

Solved Example

Example: The sound wave with a density of 0.043 kg/m3 and pressure of 3kPa having a temperature of 30°C travels in the air. Calculate the speed of the sound.

Solution:

Given,

Temperature T = 276 K

Density ρ = 0.043 kg/m3

Pressure p = 3kPa = 3000 Pa

The ratio of specific heat in air = 1.4

The formula for the speed of sound is given as,

 

   c = √[1.4× (3000 / 0.043)

Therefore, speed of sound = 312.52 m/s

Conclusion

Speed of sound is a concept that plays an indispensable role in such disciplines as acoustics and engineering. The better the student understands factors that influence the speed of sound and how to calculate, the more likely they will be able to master the very important topic - speed of sound of physics.

 

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