When a sound travels through water, the distance yin meters that the sound travels in xseconds is given by the equation y=1440x.

In air, the equation is y=343x. Does sound travel faster in air or water? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The sound travels faster in the water.

Step by step solution

01

– Given information.

The distance y in meters that the sound travels through water in x seconds is:

y=1440x

The distance y in meters that the sound travels through air in x seconds is:

y=343x

02

– Find the speed of sound in water.

Substitute x=1 in y=1440x.

y=1440(1)=1440

So, the sound travels 1440 meter per second.

03

– Find the speed of sound in air and then compare both speeds.

Substitute x=1 in y=343x.

y=343(1)=343

So, the sound travels 343 meter per second.

Since 1440>343, therefore the speed of sound is greater in the water.

Thus, the sound travels faster in the water.

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