What has the most impact on the speed of sound in seawater?

Answer 1

Any factor which alters the density of the sea water causes a variation in the velocity of sound in seawater. Basically, changes in temperature and salinity will result in changes in density. This can cause large changes in velocity.

For example, seawater in the carribean with a temperature of 20C and a salinity of 37ppt might result in a velocity of, say, 1530m/s, whereas seawater in the North Sea with a temperature of 3C and a salinity of, say, 31ppt, would result in a velocity of, say, 1480m/s.

Answer 2

The speed of sound changes clearly with temperature, a little bit with humidity − but not with air pressure (atmospheric pressure).

The words "sound pressure at sea level" are incorrect and misleading in the case of "speed of sound". The temperature indication, however, is absolutely necessary.

The changing of atmospheric pressure does not change the sound of Musical Instruments in a concert hall or in a room.

Answer 3

One factor could be the humidity. A higher humidity means the air is more dense with water molecules which could slow the velocity of sound.

Another factor could be pressure. The more pressure from the atmosphere or the surroundings could slow the velocity of sound.

A third factor could be temperature. A higher temperature means the molecules are vibrating faster and this means that the sound waves can move faster.

The density of the air could also be a fourth factor. This can tie into the humidity factor. But other things can contribute to a higher or lower air density than humidity. If the air is polluted (like much of the air in citys) the air is more dense.

Fun Fact: In a vacuum ( this means no humidity, no pressure... ect.) the velocity of air travels 344 meters per second.

Answer 4

temperature, salinity, and pressure