1. What is Speed of Sound in Feet Per Second?

The speed of sound in feet per second represents how fast sound waves travel through a medium, typically air. At 20°C (68°F), sound travels at approximately 1125 feet per second in dry air.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the temperature-based approximation formula:

Where:

• \( v \) — Speed of sound in feet per second
• \( T \) — Temperature in degrees Celsius

Explanation: The speed of sound increases with temperature as warmer air molecules move faster and transmit sound waves more quickly.

3. Importance of Sound Speed Calculation

Details: Accurate sound speed calculation is crucial for audio engineering, acoustics, military applications, weather forecasting, and various scientific measurements involving sound propagation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter temperature in degrees Celsius. The calculator will provide the approximate speed of sound in feet per second for that temperature.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does sound speed change with temperature?
A: Sound travels faster in warmer air because the air molecules have higher kinetic energy and can transmit sound vibrations more quickly.

Q2: What is the speed of sound at room temperature?
A: At typical room temperature (20°C or 68°F), sound travels at approximately 1125 feet per second in dry air.

Q3: How does humidity affect sound speed?
A: Humidity has a minor effect on sound speed. Sound travels slightly faster in humid air than in dry air at the same temperature.

Q4: Does altitude affect sound speed?
A: Altitude affects air density and temperature, which indirectly affects sound speed. The primary factor is temperature rather than altitude itself.

Q5: What is the speed of sound in other units?
A: At 20°C, sound travels at approximately 343 meters per second, 767 miles per hour, or 1235 kilometers per hour.