Page 74 - Science Course 3 (Book 2)

Mo10-L4a: How are Sound Waves Produced?

The speed of Sound Waves in Different Materials
Gases (00C) Liquids(250C) Solids

Material Speed(m/s) Material Speed(m/s) Material Speed(m/s)
Carbon dioxide 259 Ethanol 1,207 Brick 3,480

Dry Air 331 Mercury 1,450 Ice 3,850
Water Vapor 405 Water 1,500 Aluminum 6,420
Helium 965 Glycerine 1,904 Diamond 17,500

The speed of a sound wave depends mainly on the
strength of the forces between the particles in the Key Concept
material. How are Sound Waves Produced?

These forces are usually strongest in solids and Why is the speed of sound waves faster in solids
weakest in gases. than in liquids or gases?

Sound waves travel faster in a material as the
temperature of the material increases.

Aircraft moving at the speed of sound

SUMMARY

How are Sound Waves Produced?

A sound wave is a longitudinal wave that can
travel only through matter.

Aircraft moving faster then the speed of sound

66