Question

Calculate the velocity of longitudinal waves in mercury if the bulk modulus of mercury is 2.6 x 10 Exp. 11 dynes/sq.cm and its density is 2,000,000 dynes. 

Answer 1

The bulk modulus of mercury $B=2.6\cdot10^{11}\ (dynes/sq.cm)=2.6\cdot10^{10}\ (Pa)$

Density of mercury $\rho=13534\ (kg/m^3)$

The velocity of longitudinal waves in mercury $v=\sqrt{B/\rho}=\sqrt{2.6\cdot10^{10}/13534}=1386\ (m/s)$