Speed of Sound
The speed of sound depends on the medium and, in gases, on temperature. It is typically around 343 m/s in air at 20°C.
Try the simulator
Speed of Sound
Medium selector and temperature (air). Wave travel time.
Dependence on medium and temperature
Speed of sound is different in different media: roughly 343 m/s in air at 20°C, about 1500 m/s in water, and several thousand m/s in steel. In gases, speed increases with temperature (approximately proportional to √T). In liquids and solids, the relationship is more complex but still depends on elastic properties and density.
✔ Key takeaway: Speed depends on medium (and in gases, on temperature); v_air ≈ 343 m/s at 20°C.
Link to simulator: Select medium and temperature in the simulator and read the speed and travel time.