Frequency Physics Example 2

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Example 2

medium
A radio station broadcasts at 100 MHz100 \text{ MHz}. What is the wavelength of the radio wave? Use c=3×108 m/sc = 3 \times 10^8 \text{ m/s}.

Solution

  1. 1
    Convert frequency: 100 MHz=100×106=108 Hz100 \text{ MHz} = 100 \times 10^6 = 10^8 \text{ Hz}.
  2. 2
    Use the electromagnetic wave relation: λ=cf\lambda = \frac{c}{f}.
  3. 3
    λ=3×108108=3 m\lambda = \frac{3 \times 10^8}{10^8} = 3 \text{ m}

Answer

λ=3 m\lambda = 3 \text{ m}
Radio waves are electromagnetic waves with long wavelengths and low frequencies compared to visible light. FM radio frequencies are in the MHz range.

About Frequency

The number of complete wave cycles passing a fixed point per second, measured in hertz (Hz).

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Example 1 easy

A pendulum completes [formula] swings in [formula]. What is its frequency and period?

Example 3 easy

A wave has a period of [formula]. What is its frequency?

Example 4 medium

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