When a sound wave travels from one medium to another, its speed changes depending on the properties of the materials. In this case, we are examining the transition of a sound wave from copper to aluminum.
Refer to the speeds of sound provided for each material:
- Copper: 5,010 m/s
- Aluminum: 6,420 m/s
Comparing these speeds:
- The speed of sound in copper is 5,010 m/s.
- The speed of sound in aluminum is greater, at 6,420 m/s.
Since the speed of sound in aluminum is higher than in copper, the sound wave will travel faster in aluminum than it does in copper. Therefore, when a sound wave travels from copper into aluminum, it will speed up.
Thus, the correct answer is:
B. The wave will speed up.
