— velocity of elastic waves in the environment of low intensity (see. Intensity of the sound) in contrast to the shock waves. In gases and liquids V.of s. $$
v=\sqrt{\frac{K}{\rho}}
$$ where $K$ — bulk modulus of elasticity of the medium; $\rho$ — density undisturbed environment. In solids V.of s. Is different for longitudinal and transverse waves.