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CAIE IGCSE Physics Sound Speed in Solids Liquids Gases

Practise comparing sound speed in solids, liquids and gases and apply typical air, water and metal values to timing, wavelength and distance questions.

Syllabus
2026–2028
Course
Physics 0625

Exam points

  • order sound speed as solids generally fastest, then liquids, then gases
  • use typical values near 340 m/s in air, 1500 m/s in water and 5000 m/s in metal
  • link a medium-speed change to wavelength or echo distance while frequency stays fixed

3.4.11—That, in general, sound travels faster question 1

[Maximum number: 3]

Fig. 6.1 represents wavefronts of a sound wave travelling in air from left to right.

Fig. 6.1

Fig. 6.1

The wave passes into water.

State and explain any change in the pattern of wavefronts shown in Fig. 6.1.

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