Final answer:
To determine which of the three waves has the highest frequency, we look for the wave with the shortest wavelength, given that all the waves travel at the same speed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The frequency of a wave is inversely proportional to its wavelength, meaning that as the wavelength of a wave decreases, its frequency increases, provided the wave speed remains constant. Since all three waves travel to the right with the same speed, the wave with the shortest wavelength will have the highest frequency. Remember, the relationship between speed (v), frequency (f), and wavelength (λ) is given by the equation v = fλ. If the speed is constant, a shorter wavelength directly implies a higher frequency.
The concept is further illustrated by considering the Doppler effect, where the observed frequency increases as the wavelength between crests decreases due to relative motion towards an observer. This principle holds true for all wave types, including sound waves and electromagnetic waves like light.