Question

How do I determine the wavespeed from given frequency and wavelenght?

The wavelenght of a periodic wave is `0,5m`. If the frequency of this wave is `s^{-1}` , determine the wavespeed.

I'm having trouble with this question :)

Answer 1

`v = 0.5 m/s`

Explanation:

The formula that relates wavespeed, frequency, and wavelength is
`v = lambda*f`
where v is wavespeed, `lambda` is wavelength, and f is frequency.

`lambda` is in units of meters and frequency is typically in units of Hz. (But Hz is equivalent to `s^-1 or 1/s`.) So v is in units of m/s.

When you gave the data, did you mean that the frequency of this wave is `1 s^-1` (which would be equivalent to saying frequency is 1 Hz). I will assume that.

`v = lambda*f = 0.5 m*1 s^-1 = 0.5 m/s`
I hope this helps,
Steve

Answer 2

`v=flamda`

Explanation:

You forgot to put a value for the frequency; I'm working with `f=1Hz`

The Wave Equation is:

`v=flamda`

Where:

`v` is velocity `m s^-1`
`f` is the frequency in `Hz`
`lamda` (pronounced "lamda") is the wavelength in `m`

Therefore;

`v=flamda`
`v=0.5xx1`

`v=0.5ms^-1`

Where the Wave Equation Comes from

Not essential, but it might help to know where the equation comes from.

`v=s/t" "` speed=distance/time

Since `lamda` is the distance travelled, and `1/f` is the time it takes to travel there;

`v=lamda*1/("1/f")`

`v=flamda`