Question

The density of oxygen is 16 times that of hydrogen. The ratio of the velocity of sound in oxygen to that in hydrogen is

• A. \(1:4\)
• B. \(4:1\)
• C. \(1:2\)
• D. \(2:1\)

Hint:

Speed of sound in a gas depends inversely on the square root of its density when the pressure and gamma are the same.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Compare the options
Oxygen is much denser, so sound travels slower in it. The ratio must be less than 1.

Step 2: Pick
Since $\sqrt{16}=4$, the ratio is $1:4$.

Step 3: Final answer
Sound in oxygen is one-fourth as fast as in hydrogen.

Final Answer:
Sound in oxygen is one-fourth as fast as in hydrogen. \[ \boxed{\text{(A) }1:4} \]