The speed of a mechanical wave depends on the properties of the medium through which it is traveling. In general, waves travel faster through denser media than less dense media. This is because in a denser medium, the particles are more closely packed together, so they can transfer energy more efficiently.

Gases are less dense than liquids or solids, so waves travel slower through them. In a gas, the particles are farther apart, so they have to travel a greater distance to transfer energy. This results in a slower wave speed.

Liquids are denser than gases, so waves travel faster through them. However, liquids are still not as dense as solids, so waves travel faster through solids than liquids.

In addition to density, the speed of a wave also depends on the elasticity of the medium. Elasticity is the measure of how well a material can return to its original shape after being deformed. The more elastic a material is, the faster waves can travel through it.

Solids are more elastic than liquids, which are more elastic than gases. This is why waves travel fastest through solids, then liquids, then gases.

Here is a table summarizing the relative speeds of mechanical waves in different media:

| Medium | Speed of Wave |

|---|---|

| Solid | Fastest |

| Liquid | Slower than solids, faster than gases |

| Gas | Slowest |