Which one of the following statements is correct ? The velocity of sound :

The velocity of sound is fundamentally dependent on the nature of the medium through which it propagates, specifically its elasticity and density. Sound is a mechanical wave that travels via the compression and rarefaction of particles [1]. In solids, particles are closely packed with strong intermolecular forces, allowing vibrations to transmit rapidly. Consequently, the speed of sound is highest in solids, followed by liquids, and is lowest in gases where particles are far apart and interparticle attractions are negligible. For instance, sound travels at approximately 331–343 m/s in air, but exceeds 5000 m/s in solids like iron [3]. This hierarchy (Solids > Liquids > Gases) is primarily due to the significantly higher elastic modulus of solids compared to the bulk modulus of liquids and the low elasticity of gases.

Sources

1. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 5: Earths Magnetic Field (Geomagnetic Field) > Why Do Sound Waves Travel Faster In A Denser Medium Whereas Light Travels Slower? > p. 64
2. [3] https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/mechanical-waves-and-sound/sound-topic/v/relative-speed-of-sound-in-solids-liquids-and-gases