30.2: Introduction
( \newcommand{\kernel}{\mathrm{null}\,}\)
All waves begin as a vibration. For the vibration to produce sound, there must be a material through which the vibration may travel. The vibrations of atoms and molecules in air create compressions and rarefactions in the air.

Sound travels at an average speed of 343 m/s in air; this speed varies because it depends on the atmospheric pressure and temperature of the air. It takes time for the sound wave to travel. Light travels at a speed of 299,702,547 m/s in air. Light waves also take time to travel.
speed=distancetime