Home
Back
Speed of Sound Equation:
| From: | To: |
The speed of sound at altitude equation approximates how sound speed decreases with increasing altitude. The formula provides a simple linear approximation for calculating sound speed at different elevations above sea level.
The calculator uses the speed of sound equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation provides an approximate linear relationship between altitude and sound speed, with sound speed decreasing as altitude increases.
Details: Calculating speed of sound at different altitudes is important for aviation, meteorology, acoustics engineering, and various scientific applications where sound propagation needs to be accurately predicted.
Tips: Enter altitude in meters above sea level. The value must be valid (altitude ≥ 0). The calculator will provide the approximate speed of sound at that altitude.
Q1: Why does sound speed decrease with altitude?
A: Sound speed decreases with altitude primarily due to the decrease in air temperature with increasing elevation, as sound travels faster in warmer air.
Q2: How accurate is this approximation?
A: This is a simplified linear approximation. For precise calculations, more complex equations that account for temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure variations are needed.
Q3: What is the speed of sound at sea level?
A: At sea level (h = 0), the speed of sound is approximately 295 m/s according to this equation, though actual values vary with temperature and humidity.
Q4: Does this equation work for all altitudes?
A: This linear approximation works reasonably well for typical terrestrial altitudes but may become less accurate at very high altitudes where atmospheric conditions change significantly.
Q5: What factors affect sound speed besides altitude?
A: Temperature is the primary factor, but humidity, air pressure, and air composition also influence the speed of sound in air.