Sound Wave and its Characteristics: Practice Problem & Solution

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Sound Wave and its Characteristics. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

The speed of sound in a gas is \( v = \sqrt{\gamma P/\rho} \). Moist air (humid air) has a lower average molecular mass and thus lower density \( \rho \) than dry air at the same pressure and temperature. A lower density leads to a higher speed of sound. Thus, A is true. Reason R is false; increasing humidity does not necessarily increase total pressure, and the primary factor for faster sound is reduced density.