How this calculator works
For dry air with nearly fixed composition and heat-capacity ratio, sound speed varies with the square root of absolute temperature. This approximation is anchored at 331.3 m/s at 0 C and uses kelvins internally. It is most useful near ordinary atmospheric temperatures. Humidity, changing composition and temperature-dependent heat capacities are excluded, so extreme-temperature results are only mathematical extrapolations.
Formula
c = 331.3 sqrt(TK/273.15) m/s; TK = 273.15 (c/331.3)². TK = TC + 273.15.
Worked example
At 0 C, the model gives 331.3 m/s. At 20 C it gives about 343.215 m/s. A mathematical doubling of speed corresponds to four times the absolute temperature.
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Frequently asked questions
Does pressure change the result?
At fixed temperature and composition an ideal gas sound speed is independent of pressure.
Can I enter a negative Celsius temperature?
Yes, provided its absolute temperature remains above zero kelvins.
Does this apply to water or steel?
No. Liquids and solids need their own density and elastic properties.