Why do sound waves travel faster in water than in air?

Sound waves travel faster in water than in air primarily due to the density of the medium. In general, sound travels through a medium by causing particles in that medium to vibrate and transfer energy. Water, being denser than air, provides a more efficient medium for this transfer of sound waves.

The greater density means that the particles in water are closer together compared to those in air, allowing sound waves to be transmitted more quickly from one particle to another. This enhanced interaction between closely packed molecules facilitates faster energy transfer, thus increasing the speed of sound.

Although temperature can influence the speed of sound (with warmer temperatures typically accelerating sound), the essential factor linking sound speed and medium characteristics lies in density. In this case, the other options do not contribute positively to understanding why sound speed differs significantly between air and water.