Speed Of Sound

Definition

The Speed of Sound ($a$) is the distance traveled per unit time by a sound wave as it propagates through an elastic medium. In fluid dynamics, it is the speed at which small pressure disturbances propagate.

Formula

For an ideal gas: $a = \sqrt{\gamma RT}$ where $\gamma$ is the heat capacity ratio, $R$ is the specific gas constant, and $T$ is temperature.

Relationships

• Related: Mach Number, Thermodynamic Potentials