Created By : Vaibhavi Kumari

Reviewed By : Rajashekhar Valipishetty

Last Updated : May 23, 2023


The sound propagation speed in the solids calculator may be used to calculate the speed of sound waves travelling through various solid mediums. Consider striking a hammer at one end of a long rod; the resulting sound wave will travel through the rod until it reaches the other end, then return to you. This calculator will assist you in determining the wave propagation speed, or the speed of sound, in solids such as copper or steel rods.

Choose Material
Modulus of elasticity
Density of material
Speed


What is meant by a Sound Wave and how do you calculate its Speed?

A sound wave is a mechanical wave produced by particle vibrations in a medium. The distance travelled by the wave's energy per unit of time is the speed of a sound wave. The qualities of the medium through which a sound wave travels determine its speed. The speed of a sound wave travelling through a long cylindrical rod of material With the density of and elasticity modulus of E may be represented as:

c = √(E / ρ)

Acoustic impedance is a property of a substance that reflects the density and speed of sound in that medium (Z).

Factors Affecting the Sound speed

The speed at which sound waves propagate is influenced by the medium's qualities. The stiffness and rigidity of a material can affect the speed of a sound wave. The higher the elasticity modulus, the faster the sound travels. On the other hand, Denser materials will result in slower wave velocity. However, when compared to density, the modulus of elasticity has a greater influence on sound speed. As a result, while comparing the speed of sound in various states, it can be seen that:

Vsolids > Vliquid > Vgas.

How Do I Use the Speed of Sound in Solid Calculator?

To estimate the speed of a sound wave in a solid, follow the procedures below:

  • Step 1: Determine the units based on the information supplied. You can also use our speed conversion tool to translate the speed into the relevant units.
  • Step 2: Enter the material density. If you want to convert the density to a different unit, go here.
  • Step 3: Enter the elasticity modulus.
  • Step 4: The speed of sound in the solids calculator will calculate the material's speed of sound.

Get acquainted with different types of physics concepts along with their calculators to make your calculations quick and simple on Physicscalculatorpro.com a trusted portal for all your needs.

FAQs on Speed of Sound in Solid Calculator

1. How fast does sound travel in kilometres per second?

The speed of sound at sea level on Earth is 761.2 miles per hour (1,225 kilometres per hour), assuming a temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). The speed of sound is slowed by the slower movement of gas molecules in colder temperatures; sound travels quicker in warmer air.

2. Why do solids have a faster sound speed?

Because the molecules in solids are closer together and more closely bound, sound waves travel more easily through solids than through liquids. Sound travels more slowly through gases than through liquids, due to the larger distance between molecules in gases.

3. What is the difference between the speed of sound in solids, liquids, and gases?

The Sound's Speed: Depending on what it's going through, sound travels at different speeds. Sound waves travel the slowest through gases, the fastest through liquids, and the fastest through solids of the three mediums (gas, liquid, and solid).

4. What are the three factors that influence sound speed?

Temperature, density, and stiffness of the medium through which the wave travels are the three parameters that influence the speed of sound waves.

5. What variables influence the speed of sound?

In an ideal gas, the speed of sound is determined solely by its temperature and composition. In common air, the speed has a weak relationship with frequency and pressure, deviating slightly from optimal behaviour. The speed of sound in colloquial speech refers to the speed of sound waves in the air.