Properties of Sound and Mechanical Waves – Rankers Physics

Kinetic Theory of Gases: Practice Problem & Solution

Consider the following statements. Statement A: Velocity of sound in gaseous medium depends on molar mass of gas. Statement B: Mechanical wave require a material medium for their propagation. Statement C: Speed of sound is less in humid air. Which of the statement(s) is/are correct?
Only statements A and B
Only statements B and C
Only statements A and C
All statements A, B and C

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Kinetic Theory of Gases. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Velocity of sound is given by \(v = \sqrt{\frac{\gamma RT}{M}}\), so it depends on molar mass \(M\). Mechanical waves require a material medium. Humid air has lower density than dry air, which increases the speed of sound, making Statement C incorrect.

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