Yes, the speed of sound waves does change depending on the temperature of the medium through which they are propagating. In general, sound waves travel faster in warmer temperatures and slower in colder temperatures.
The relationship between the speed of sound and temperature can be explained by the properties of the medium. In most gases, including air, the speed of sound increases with an increase in temperature. This is because as the temperature rises, the molecules in the medium gain more kinetic energy and move faster. The increased molecular motion leads to more frequent collisions between the molecules, resulting in a higher speed of sound propagation.
For example, in dry air at sea level, the approximate speed of sound is around 343 meters per second (or about 1,125 feet per second) at 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). As the temperature increases, the speed of sound in air increases as well.
Conversely, when the temperature decreases, the speed of sound decreases. Colder temperatures result in reduced molecular motion, leading to fewer collisions between the molecules and a slower propagation of sound waves.
It's worth noting that the relationship between temperature and the speed of sound can vary in different mediums. In solids and liquids, the speed of sound is generally less affected by temperature compared to gases, as the molecular structure and intermolecular forces play a more significant role in determining sound propagation.