UPSC Prelims 2006·GS1·science-and-technology·science and technology

In which one among the following is the speed of sound maximum?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. AAir at 0°C
  2. BAir at 100°C
  3. CWater
  4. DWoodCorrect

Explanation

The speed of sound depends on the density and elasticity of the medium through which it travels. Sound travels fastest in solids, slower in liquids, and slowest in gases. This is because molecules in solids are packed closely together, allowing vibrations to transfer more rapidly. In this question, air is a gas and water is a liquid. Wood is a solid. Therefore, sound travels faster in wood than in water or air. Among the given options, wood provides the most rigid and elastic medium, resulting in the maximum speed of sound.
science-and-technology: In which one among the following is the speed of sound maximum?

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