Sound waves travel faster in the ocean compared to a lake. The speed of sound in water depends on various factors, including temperature, salinity, and pressure. However, in general, the speed of sound is faster in saltwater (such as in the ocean) compared to freshwater (such as in a lake).
The speed of sound in water is influenced by the density and compressibility of the medium. Saltwater has a higher density and is less compressible than freshwater, resulting in a faster propagation of sound waves. The average speed of sound in saltwater is approximately 1,500 meters per second (m/s), while in freshwater, it is around 1,480 m/s.
The exact speed of sound in both water bodies can vary due to factors like temperature and salinity gradients, but the general trend is that sound waves will travel faster in the ocean than in a lake.
It's worth noting that the speed of sound in water is significantly faster than in air, which has an average speed of about 343 m/s at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. This is why sound travels much farther and faster underwater compared to in the air.