Sound travels fastest through solids compared to liquids and gases. This is primarily due to the density and elasticity of the medium. In solids, particles are closely packed together, allowing sound waves to transmit energy more efficiently. The vibrations caused by sound waves are rapidly passed from one particle to the next, resulting in quicker travel times.
For example, sound travels at about 5,960 meters per second in steel, which is significantly faster than its speed in water (about 1,480 meters per second) and in air (approximately 343 meters per second at room temperature). The difference in speed is largely because solids can compress and transmit sound waves much better due to their structure.
The speed of sound can also vary within the same medium based on factors such as temperature, pressure, and the molecular structure of the material. In gases, for instance, increasing temperature typically increases the speed of sound as the molecules move faster, leading to more effective energy transfer. Similarly, in liquids, factors like salinity and temperature can affect speed.
In summary, while sound always travels fastest in solids due to their dense and elastic properties, its speed can vary significantly based on the medium's characteristics and environmental conditions.