What is the relationship for wavelength in terms of speed and frequency?

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Study for the Georgia High School Physical Science Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, detailed hints and explanations included. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the relationship for wavelength in terms of speed and frequency?

Explanation:
Wavelength is determined by how fast the wave travels and how often its cycles occur. For any wave, speed v equals frequency f times wavelength λ, written as v = fλ. Solving for wavelength gives λ = v / f. In the case of light, v is the speed of light c, so λ = c / f. This means increasing the frequency makes the wavelength shorter, and decreasing the frequency makes it longer. The division by frequency is the correct way to relate wavelength to speed, because it matches the units (meters = (meters per second) ÷ (per second)) and the observed inverse relationship between frequency and wavelength.

Wavelength is determined by how fast the wave travels and how often its cycles occur. For any wave, speed v equals frequency f times wavelength λ, written as v = fλ. Solving for wavelength gives λ = v / f. In the case of light, v is the speed of light c, so λ = c / f. This means increasing the frequency makes the wavelength shorter, and decreasing the frequency makes it longer. The division by frequency is the correct way to relate wavelength to speed, because it matches the units (meters = (meters per second) ÷ (per second)) and the observed inverse relationship between frequency and wavelength.

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