Correct Option (d):
The speed of sound is primarily determined by the medium's elasticity (or bulk modulus) and density. Generally, sound travels fastest in solids, slower in liquids, and slowest in gases. This is because the molecules in solids are more closely packed and have stronger intermolecular forces, facilitating more efficient and rapid transmission of vibrational energy.
- In air at 0°C, the speed of sound is approximately 331 m/s.
- In air at 100°C, the speed increases to about 386 m/s due to higher temperature.
- In water (a liquid), the speed of sound is around 1497 m/s.
- In wood (a solid), the speed of sound typically ranges from 3300 to 3600 m/s, depending on the type and density.
Among the given options, wood, being a solid, exhibits the highest speed of sound.
Incorrect Options:
Options (a) and (b) represent air, which is a gaseous medium. Sound propagates significantly slower in gases compared to liquids and solids. Although increasing the temperature from 0°C to 100°C increases the speed of sound in air, it remains considerably lower than in liquid or solid mediums.
Option (c) represents water, a liquid medium. While sound travels faster in water than in air, its speed is still substantially lower than in solid materials like wood due to differences in molecular arrangement and elastic properties.