New research conducted by scientists provides us with new knowledge about the speed of sound in different types of substances. It turns out that the speed of sound in solids depends mainly on their structure and atomic mass.
Until now, we were uncertain about the maximum speed of sound in gases and solids. However, according to the new research published in the journal “Science Advance,” it can be concluded that the speed of sound in specific substances is determined by the constant structure of the material and the ratio of proton mass to electron mass.
Attempts to confirm these theoretical calculations were conducted on various materials. One of the most interesting discoveries is the fact that the speed of sound decreases as the atomic mass of the material increases. It turns out that the highest speed of sound can be achieved in crystalline atomic hydrogen.
However, to obtain such a material, it is necessary to generate pressure above 1 million atmospheres, which is comparable to the conditions in the core of Jupiter. Hydrogen in such a state becomes a metallic solid that not only conducts electricity perfectly but also is likely to be a superconductor at room temperature.
The conducted research is of fundamental significance for our understanding of the universe. The speed of sound in a particular material affects many processes, including the existence of an exosphere around stars, which can be a place for the formation of the first molecules of life.
Full information regarding this research can be found in the article “Speed of sound from fundamental physical constants.”
FAQ
What is the maximum speed of sound in gases?
Until now, we were uncertain about the maximum speed of sound in gases. However, new research suggests that the speed of sound in specific substances depends on their delicate structure and the ratio of proton mass to electron mass.
Which material has the highest speed of sound?
According to the latest research, crystalline atomic hydrogen has the highest speed of sound among all known materials. However, to obtain it, it is necessary to generate very high pressure, comparable to the pressure in the core of Jupiter.
Definitions
– Speed of sound: The speed at which sound travels through a medium. Depending on the properties of the material, the speed of sound may vary.
– Delicate structure: A physical constant that determines the properties of matter at the subatomic level.
– Proton mass: The mass of a proton, one of the fundamental building blocks of an atom.
– Electron mass: The mass of an electron, a basic component of an atom.
Source: scienceadvance.com
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