Knowing that the atomic number of neon is greater than that of helium, at the same temperature and pressure, how does the speed of sound in helium gas compare to the speed of sound in neon gas?
A)greater in neon than in helium
B)greater in helium than in neon
C)the same in both gases
D)depends on the frequency of the sound generated

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The speed of sound in a gas is proportional to the square root of the average speed of its particles, which in turn is proportional to the square root of their average kinetic energy. As helium atoms are lighter than neon atoms, they move faster at the same temperature, resulting in a higher speed of sound in helium gas compared to neon gas.

Knowing That the Atomic Number of Neon Is Greater Than