Wavelength

\lambda=\dfrac{v}{f}=vT

Result unit: m (metre)

What it describes

The distance between successive points of a wave in the same phase (e.g. two crests).

\lambda

wavelength

[m]

v

wave speed

[m/s]

f

frequency

[Hz]

T

period

[s]

The distance between neighbouring crests. At a fixed speed, a higher frequency means a shorter wave.

Determining the wavelength from speed and frequency.

A sound has

v=340

m/s and

f=170

Hz. Calculate the wavelength.

Substitution

v=340

f=170

Result

\lambda=\dfrac{340}{170}=2

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