Speed of Sound in Different Mediums

Sound waves travel through different mediums, and the speed of sound is influenced by the properties of the medium. In air, the speed of sound is approximately 343 meters per second at room temperature. When sound waves pass through a liquid, such as water, the speed increases due to the higher density and elasticity of the liquid compared to air. On the other hand, sound travels even faster through solids, such as steel or wood, mainly due to the tightly packed molecules that facilitate quicker vibrations.

What is the primary factor that contributes to the increased speed of sound in solids compared to liquids and gases?