The velocity of a sound wave refers to the speed at which the wave travels through a medium. It is determined by the properties of the medium, such as its density, elasticity, and temperature. The velocity of sound can vary in different materials and conditions.
 
In general, the velocity of sound in a medium can be calculated using the formula:
 
v = √(E/ρ)
 
where:
– v is the velocity of sound
– E is the elastic modulus or stiffness of the medium
– ρ is the density of the medium
 
In solids, sound waves travel faster compared to liquids and gases due to the higher elasticity and density of solids. In air at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, the approximate velocity of sound is about 343 meters per second (or 767 miles per hour).
 
It’s important to note that the velocity of sound can be influenced by other factors, such as temperature, humidity, and pressure. For example, the velocity of sound in air increases with an increase in temperature because the molecules move faster, leading to greater sound wave propagation speed.
 
Additionally, the velocity of sound can differ in different media. For example, sound travels faster in water than in air, with a velocity of approximately 1,484 meters per second.
 
Understanding the velocity of sound waves is crucial in various fields, including physics, acoustics, and engineering, as it helps in predicting and analyzing the behavior of sound in different materials and environments.