Wave Speed Physics Example 5
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 5
mediumA sound wave has frequency 440 Hz and wavelength 0.773 m. Calculate the speed of sound.
Solution
- 1 Recall the wave equation: , where is wave speed, is frequency, and is wavelength.
- 2 Substitute the given values: .
- 3 Calculate: .
- 4 Round appropriately: , which is consistent with the speed of sound in air at room temperature.
Answer
The wave equation connects wave speed, frequency, and wavelength. This relationship holds for all types of waves — sound, light, and water waves. The frequency of 440 Hz corresponds to the musical note A4.
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 1 easy
A sound wave has a frequency of [formula] and a wavelength of [formula]. What is the speed of sound?
Example 2 mediumA seismic wave travels [formula] in [formula]. What is its speed? If the frequency is [formula], wha
Example 3 mediumAn electromagnetic wave has a frequency of [formula]. What is its wavelength? Use [formula].
Example 4 mediumThe speed of sound in air at [formula] is [formula] and in water is [formula]. A [formula] tone trav