The velocity of sound in different mediums
The velocity of sound varies across different mediums and is highest in solids. This is due to the tightly packed molecules in solids, which facilitate quicker transmission of sound waves. In contrast, sound travels slower in liquids and slowest in gases.
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The velocity of sound depends on the medium through which it travels, varying significantly across gases, liquids, and solids. In solids, the molecules are closely packed, which allows sound waves to travel more efficiently and rapidly. Therefore, the speed of sound is highest in solids. In liquids, the molecules are less tightly packed than in solids but more so than in gases, resulting in a moderate speed of sound. In gases, the molecules are farthest apart, causing the slowest transmission of sound waves.
For instance, at room temperature, the speed of sound in air (a gas) is approximately 343 meters per second, in water (a liquid) it is about 1,480 meters per second, and in steel (a solid), it is around 5,960 meters per second. This illustrates the trend of increasing sound velocity from gases to liquids to solids. Thus, the correct answer is; option [B] Varies and is highest in solid.