Understanding the Relationship
* Wavelength (λ): The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave.
* Period (T): The time it takes for one complete wave cycle to pass a given point.
* Speed (v): The distance traveled by the wave per unit of time.
The Formula
The speed of a wave is calculated using the following formula:
v = λ / T
Calculation
1. Convert wavelength to meters: 20 cm = 0.2 meters
2. Plug in the values:
v = 0.2 meters / 0.5 seconds
3. Calculate:
v = 0.4 meters per second (m/s)
Therefore, the speed of the wave is 0.4 meters per second.