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If waves are traveling at a constant speed, what can you say about the wavelength in relation to frequency?

User Afrederick
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Final answer:

In waves traveling at a constant speed, wavelength and frequency have an inverse relationship, dictated by the equation v = fλ.

Step-by-step explanation:

If waves are traveling at a constant speed, the relationship between wavelength and frequency is inversely proportional. This means that as the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases, and vice versa. To understand this relationship, we can use the formula where the speed of the wave = frequency × wavelength, which can be expressed as v = fλ. This equation illustrates that if the speed (v) is constant and the frequency (f) is increased, the wavelength (λ) must decrease to maintain the equality. Similarly, if the wavelength is increased, the frequency must decrease. This is akin to watching a parade where elements with different sizes (wavelengths) pass by at the same speed; larger objects (longer wavelengths) mean fewer pass in a given time (lower frequency), while smaller objects (shorter wavelengths) result in many passing by quickly (higher frequency).

User Ecleel
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