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As the frequency of sound is increased, does the wavelength increase or decrease? Give an example.

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Final answer:

When the frequency of sound increases, the wavelength of the sound wave decreases due to their inverse relationship as dictated by the formula v = fλ, wherein a constant speed, an increased frequency must result in a decreased wavelength.

Step-by-step explanation:

As the frequency of sound is increased, the wavelength of the sound wave decreases. This inverse relationship can be explained by the formula v = fλ, where v is the speed of sound in a medium, f is the frequency, and λ is the wavelength. Thus, for a constant speed of sound, an increase in frequency results in a decrease in wavelength to maintain the equality.

For example, if a sound wave is emitting a pitch that is getting progressively higher, we are observing an increase in its frequency. Accordingly, the sound wave's wavelength is shortening. This is analogous to the way increased tension on a guitar string produces a higher pitch (higher frequency) with shorter wavelengths between the waves.

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