Home
Back
Speed of Sound Equation:
| From: | To: |
The speed of sound equation calculates how fast sound travels through air based on temperature. The formula accounts for the fact that sound travels faster in warmer air due to increased molecular motion.
The calculator uses the speed of sound equation:
Where:
Explanation: The base speed of sound at 0°C is 331 m/s, and it increases by approximately 0.6 m/s for each degree Celsius rise in temperature.
Details: Accurate speed of sound calculation is crucial for various applications including meteorology, aviation, acoustics, and audio engineering where precise timing of sound propagation is required.
Tips: Enter temperature in degrees Celsius. The calculator will compute the corresponding speed of sound in meters per second.
Q1: Why does sound travel faster in warmer air?
A: Sound travels faster in warmer air because the increased temperature causes air molecules to move more rapidly, allowing sound waves to propagate more quickly through the medium.
Q2: What is the speed of sound at room temperature (20°C)?
A: At 20°C, the speed of sound is approximately 343 m/s (331 + 0.6 × 20 = 343 m/s).
Q3: Does humidity affect the speed of sound?
A: Yes, humidity has a small effect on the speed of sound. Moist air is less dense than dry air, which allows sound to travel slightly faster, though this effect is smaller than the temperature effect.
Q4: How accurate is this formula?
A: This formula provides a good approximation for most practical purposes, though more complex equations exist that account for additional factors like humidity and atmospheric pressure.
Q5: Does the speed of sound vary in different gases?
A: Yes, the speed of sound varies significantly in different gases depending on their density and molecular properties. This formula is specifically for dry air at standard atmospheric pressure.