Topic 4 Waves Equations

Question 1

What is the wave speed equation using frequency and wavelength?

Answer 1

wave speed (m/s) = frequency (Hz) ×
wavelength (m)

Question 2

What is the wave speed equation using distance and time?

Answer 2

wave speed (m/s) = distance (m) ÷
time (s)

Question 3

How can you measure the speed of sound in air?

Answer 3

Use two microphones and a timer to measure the time sound takes to travel a known distance, or use echoes to measure time for sound to return from a surface.

Question 4

How can you measure wave speed on water?

Answer 4

Use a ripple tank to measure wavelength and frequency, then calculate v = f × λ.

Question 5

How do you calculate depth using waves?

Answer 5

Depth = wave speed × time (using reflected waves such as sonar).