How much faster is sound in water compared to sound in air?

Sound travels significantly faster in water than in air due to the differences in the medium's density and elasticity. In general, sound waves propagate more effectively through denser media because molecules are closer together, allowing them to transmit vibrations more quickly.

In air, sound travels at approximately 343 meters per second at room temperature. In water, however, the speed of sound increases to about 1,484 meters per second. When you calculate the ratio of the speed of sound in water to that in air, it shows that sound travels roughly four times faster in water.

This understanding is crucial in various fields, including marine biology, underwater communication, and acoustic engineering, as it highlights how the physical properties of different mediums can impact sound transmission. Thus, the correct choice reflects this scientific principle of sound propagation, illustrating that in water, sound travels about four times faster than in air.