The speed of sound in air at sea level is approximately 343 meters per second, or about 1,125 feet per minute. This speed can vary based on factors such as temperature and humidity, as sound travels faster in warmer air. The speed of sound is a crucial factor in many fields, including aviation, acoustics, and engineering. In practical terms, when an object moves faster than the speed of sound, it is said to be breaking the sound barrier, resulting in a sonic boom. Understanding this speed is vital in the study of waves and their propagation in various mediums.