Key Concepts
* Wavelength (λ): The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave. Measured in meters (m).
* Frequency (f): The number of waves that pass a given point per second. Measured in Hertz (Hz).
* Speed (c): The rate at which a wave travels. For light in a vacuum, the speed is constant at approximately 299,792,458 meters per second (m/s).
The Relationship
The key relationship is that the speed of light in a vacuum is constant. This means that the product of wavelength and frequency is always the same:
* c = λf
How They Change
* Speed in a Vacuum: The speed of light in a vacuum (c) is a fundamental constant. It does not change.
* Wavelength and Frequency: Since the speed of light is constant, wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional.
* If the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases.
* If the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases.
Example
Imagine a rope with waves traveling along it. If you shake the rope faster (increasing frequency), the waves become closer together (shorter wavelength). The speed of the waves on the rope remains the same.
Important Note:
While the speed of light in a vacuum is constant, the speed of light can change when it travels through different mediums (like water or glass). This is because the light interacts with the atoms in the medium, causing it to slow down.
Let me know if you have any further questions!
