Chapter U5.114, Problem 1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The wavelength $\lambda$ of a wave needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Wavelength of wave is the distance between 2 successive crests. It is represented as follows:

Answer to Problem 1E

$\text{Wavelength = }\frac{\text{speed of light}}{\text{frequency}}$

Explanation of Solution

Wavelength can be calculated using the following formula:

$\text{Wavelength = }\frac{\text{speed of light}}{\text{frequency}}$

Wavelength usually is expressed in units of meters. The symbol for wavelength is the Greek lambda λ,

So, $\lambda =\frac{c}{v}$

Here, c is speed of light and v is frequency.

Thus, to calculate the wavelength of a wave, its frequency should be known. The speed of light has a constant value that is $3\times {10}^8\text{ m/s}$.