Why Isn't My Wavelength Calculation Correct?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the wavelength of a wave based on visual increments observed in a provided image. The original poster is attempting to determine the wavelength using a specific measurement method involving increments along the equilibrium line.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster multiplies the number of increments by a given length to find the wavelength but questions the correctness of this approach. Participants seek clarification on the definition of "increments" and the method of measuring wavelength.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in clarifying the original poster's description and understanding of the problem. There is an ongoing exploration of the terminology used and the method for calculating wavelength, with no clear consensus reached yet.

Contextual Notes

There is ambiguity regarding the term "increments" and how it relates to the measurement of wavelength. The original poster's method of calculation is questioned, indicating potential misunderstandings in the setup or definitions involved.

StotleD
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I have a picture of a wave I am looking at. Each increment on the equilibrium line is 420 cm. I am asked to find the wavelength. there are 7 increments between one location of the first wave and the second wave. I multiply 7 times 4.2 meters and the answer is still wrong. Why?
 
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What do you mean by "each increment on the equilibrium line"?. I don't really understand your description. Do you have a graph of a wave or something? The wavelength is just the distance from one peak to the next, or one trough to the next. Edit: it doesn't necessarily have to be peak to peak, for example, but it's just easier to see it if you take it as that.
 
Last edited:
Thank you Nylex, but that was the first thing I did. I am still getting a "incorrect answer". Yes, I am looking at a picture of a wave. I though I was dong something wrong so I multiplied the number of increments times the given lenght. Am I wrong or am I missing a step?
 
What do you mean by "increments"? :confused:
 

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