The speed of sound is the rate at which sound waves travel through a medium, such as air, water, or solids. In dry air at sea level and at 20 degrees Celsius, the speed of sound is approximately 343 meters per second (1,125 feet per second). This speed can vary based on factors like temperature, humidity, and the medium through which the sound is traveling. Sound travels faster in liquids and solids than in gases because the particles in these mediums are closer together, allowing sound waves to transmit more quickly. For example, in water, the speed of sound is about 1,480 meters per second, while in steel, it can reach around 5,960 meters per second.