v = fλ
where:
* v is the velocity (or speed) of the wave
* f is the frequency of the wave
* λ is the wavelength of the wave
Explanation:
* Velocity (v): This refers to how fast the wave is traveling through a medium. It is measured in units like meters per second (m/s).
* Frequency (f): This describes how many wave cycles pass a given point per second. It is measured in Hertz (Hz), which is equivalent to cycles per second.
* Wavelength (λ): This is the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave. It is measured in units like meters (m).
This equation tells us that the velocity of a wave is directly proportional to both its frequency and wavelength. This means that:
* If the frequency increases, the velocity also increases, assuming the wavelength remains constant.
* If the wavelength increases, the velocity also increases, assuming the frequency remains constant.
This equation applies to all types of waves, including:
* Electromagnetic waves: These include light, radio waves, microwaves, and X-rays.
* Sound waves: These are mechanical waves that travel through a medium like air or water.
* Water waves: These are surface waves that travel on the surface of water.