Wave Speed Physics Example 1

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 1

easy
A sound wave has a frequency of 440 Hz440 \text{ Hz} and a wavelength of 0.773 m0.773 \text{ m}. What is the speed of sound?

Solution

  1. 1
    Use the wave equation: v=fλv = f\lambda.
  2. 2
    Substitute the given values: v=440×0.773v = 440 \times 0.773.
  3. 3
    v=340.1 m/sv = 340.1 \text{ m/s}

Answer

v≈340 m/sv \approx 340 \text{ m/s}
The wave equation v=fλv = f\lambda applies to all types of waves. The speed of sound in air at room temperature is approximately 340 m/s340 \text{ m/s}.

About Wave Speed

Wave speed is the distance a wave pattern travels each second through a medium.

Learn more about Wave Speed →

More Wave Speed Examples

Example 2 medium

A seismic wave travels [formula] in [formula]. What is its speed? If the frequency is [formula], wha

Example 3 medium

An electromagnetic wave has a frequency of [formula]. What is its wavelength? Use [formula].

Example 4 medium

The speed of sound in air at [formula] is [formula] and in water is [formula]. A [formula] tone trav

Example 5 medium

A sound wave has frequency 440 Hz and wavelength 0.773 m. Calculate the speed of sound.

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