The data shows the speed of sound through air and sea water at 21°C.
How does the speed of sound in sea water compare to the speed of sound in air?
A.
The speed of sound is faster in sea water because the molecules in sea water are closer to each other and less dense.
B.
The speed of sound is slower in sea water because the molecules in sea water are closer to each other and less dense.
C.
The speed of sound is faster in sea water because the molecules in sea water are closer to each other and more dense.
D.
The speed of sound is slower in sea water because the molecules in sea water are closer to each other and more dense.
1 answer
The correct answer is:
C. The speed of sound is faster in sea water because the molecules in sea water are closer to each other and more dense.
Sound travels faster in denser media because the molecules are closer together, allowing sound waves to propagate more efficiently. In general, sound travels faster in liquids than in gases.
