In which one among the following mediums would the speed of sound be maximum?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Sea water. The speed of sound is influenced by the density and elasticity of the medium. In liquids, sound travels faster in denser media. Among the options provided, sea water has a higher density compared to distilled water, drinking water, and methanol because of its salt content and other dissolved minerals. This increased density allows sound to travel at a faster speed. Therefore, the speed of sound is maximum in sea water.
Information Booster: ● The speed of sound is generally faster in liquids than in gases due to higher density. ● Sea water has higher salinity and density, which increases the speed of sound compared to fresh water. ● The speed of sound in sea water is approximately 1500 m/s, which is higher than in distilled water. ● Temperature and pressure also affect the speed of sound in liquids, with warmer and deeper waters typically increasing speed. ● Methanol, being less dense than water, has a slower speed of sound compared to sea water. ● The arrangement and interaction of molecules in the liquid play a crucial role in determining sound speed.