Q. The speed of sound increases in solids. Consider the following factors in solids responsible for same:
  1. Strong bonds between atoms or molecules in solids
  2. close packing of particles in solids
  3. Lower elasticity in solids compared to liquids and gases
  4. well-defined and ordered arrangement of particles
How many of the above is / are correct?

Answer: Only 3
Notes: Sound velocity is generally higher in solids compared to liquids and gases due to several factors:
  1. Interatomic/Intermolecular Forces: Solids have stronger interatomic or intermolecular forces compared to liquids and gases. The strong bonds between atoms or molecules in solids allow for faster transmission of mechanical vibrations, resulting in higher sound velocity.
  2. Density: Solids are generally denser than liquids and gases. The close packing of particles in solids allows sound waves to propagate more quickly through the medium, leading to higher sound velocities.
  3. Elasticity: Solids exhibit higher elasticity compared to liquids and gases. Elasticity refers to the ability of a material to deform under stress and then return to its original shape when the stress is removed. The high elasticity of solids enables them to transmit sound waves efficiently, contributing to higher sound velocities.
  4. Structural Arrangement: Solids have a well-defined and ordered arrangement of particles. The regular lattice structure of solids allows sound waves to propagate with minimal disruption, resulting in faster sound velocities. In contrast, liquids and gases have less ordered and more random arrangements of particles, which can impede the transmission of sound waves and lower the sound velocity.
While sound velocity is generally higher in solids, it is important to note that specific factors, such as the composition, density, and temperature of the material, can influence the precise value of sound velocity in a given substance.

This question is part of UPSC Daily 20 MCQ Series Course on GKToday Android app.