The relationship between pressure and sound travel is complex and can depend on various factors. In general, the speed of sound in a medium is influenced by the density and elasticity of the medium. However, pressure alone does not directly determine the distance sound can travel.
Lower pressure, as in areas of lower atmospheric pressure at higher altitudes, can have some effect on sound propagation, but it's not necessarily tied to longer distances traveled by sound. The speed of sound decreases with decreasing density, which occurs at higher altitudes where the air pressure is lower. Consequently, sound may propagate slightly slower at higher altitudes due to the lower air density.
However, other factors come into play when considering the distance sound can travel. Sound waves can be affected by various environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind, and obstacles in the path. These factors can influence sound propagation and may cause absorption, scattering, or reflection of sound waves, thereby affecting the distance sound can travel.
Additionally, it's worth noting that the distance sound can travel is more closely related to the total energy of the sound wave rather than just the pressure. The energy of a sound wave diminishes with distance due to spreading and absorption effects, regardless of the pressure level.
In summary, while lower pressure can affect the speed of sound, it is not the sole determinant of the distance sound can travel. Other factors such as environmental conditions and the energy of the sound wave play significant roles in determining how far sound can propagate.