Practice question
Question
Why is the speed of sound higher in solids than in liquids?
Explanation
**Energy transport** in waves scales with amplitude squared A² and frequency squared ω². Wave speed determines propagation rate, and understanding T and μ allows quantitative prediction of v and associated frequencies. Solids have greater elastic moduli (bulk and shear) than liquids, increasing the speed of sound ( v = √((elastic modulus/rho)) ), despite higher density, as elasticity dominates. Using v = fλ and standing-wave condition fₙ = n v/(2L) or v/(4L) as applicable, calculation yields Greater elastic modulus, illustrating frequency-length-speed interdependence and quantization by boundaries.
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