How does sound speed vary in solids, liquids, and gases?

Sound speed varies in different mediums, being fastest in solids, slower in liquids, and slowest in gases.

Sound is a type of energy that travels in waves, known as sound waves. These waves move by vibrating the particles in the medium through which they are travelling. The speed of sound, therefore, depends on how quickly these particles can vibrate and pass the vibration along. This is determined by the properties of the medium, such as its density and elasticity.

In solids, the particles are tightly packed together. This close proximity allows vibrations to be passed along quickly and efficiently, resulting in a high speed of sound. For example, in steel, sound travels at a speed of about 5000 metres per second.

In liquids, the particles are not as closely packed as in solids, but they are still closer together than in gases. This means that vibrations can still be passed along relatively quickly, but not as quickly as in solids. In water, for example, sound travels at a speed of about 1500 metres per second.

In gases, the particles are spread out and move freely. This means that vibrations are passed along less efficiently, resulting in a slower speed of sound. In air at room temperature, sound travels at a speed of about 343 metres per second.

It's also important to note that the speed of sound can be affected by factors such as temperature and pressure. For example, increasing the temperature of a gas will increase the speed of sound in it, as the particles move more quickly and can therefore pass vibrations along more quickly. Similarly, increasing the pressure in a solid or liquid will increase the speed of sound, as the particles are pushed closer together and can therefore pass vibrations along more quickly.