  We develop the concept of frequency dependent effective mass, M(omega), of
jammed granular materials which occupy a rigid cavity to a filling fraction of
48%, the remaining volume being air of normal room condition or controlled
humidity. The dominant features of M(omega) provide signatures of the
dissipation of acoustic modes, elasticity and aging effects in the granular
medium. We perform humidity controlled experiments and interpret the data in
terms of a continuum model and a "trap" model of thermally activated capillary
bridges at the contact points. The results suggest that attenuation in the
granular materials is influenced significantly by the kinetics of capillary
condensation between the asperities at the contacts.

Soft Condensed Matter