Calculating Wavelength with Wave Speed and Period | Physics Homework Help

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In summary, the wavelength λ of a wave with a speed of 160 m/s and a period of 4.9 ms is 784m. However, this answer is being marked as incorrect, possibly due to incorrect units. The units should be checked and any necessary conversions should be done for an accurate answer.
  • #1
bfitzp
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Homework Statement


What is the wavelength λ of a wave that has a speed of 160 m/s and a period of 4.9 ms?


Homework Equations


λ = vT


The Attempt at a Solution


λ = 160 x 4.9
= 784m


However this answer is showing up as inccorect when I submit it online. What am I doing wrong?
 
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  • #2
what is the answer?
 
  • #3
You should check the units of what you computed.
 
  • #4
The units are metres. Cant see why 784m is being marked as incorrect.
 
  • #5
bfitzp said:
The units are metres. Cant see why 784m is being marked as incorrect.

They're not metres and that's your problem. Go back and do the calculation again, but include the units and any conversions that you need to do.
 
  • #6
Ah yes, don't know how I missed that. Cheers mate.
 

1. What is the definition of wavelength?

Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs of a wave. It is commonly represented by the Greek letter lambda (λ) and is measured in units of length, such as meters or nanometers.

2. How is wavelength related to frequency?

Wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional. This means that as wavelength increases, frequency decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the formula: wavelength = speed of light / frequency. This is known as the wave equation.

3. How do you measure the wavelength of a wave?

The wavelength of a wave can be measured by finding the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs. This can be done using a ruler or other measuring tool. In some cases, specialized equipment such as spectrometers or diffraction gratings may be used to measure the wavelength of light waves.

4. What is the relationship between wavelength and color?

Wavelength is closely related to the color of light. Different colors of light have different wavelengths, with red having the longest wavelength and violet having the shortest. This is why we see different colors in a rainbow, as sunlight is broken up into its different wavelengths by water droplets in the atmosphere.

5. What is the importance of wavelength in science?

Wavelength is an important concept in many fields of science, including physics, chemistry, and biology. It is a fundamental property of waves and is used to describe and understand various phenomena, such as sound waves, light waves, and electromagnetic radiation. Understanding the concept of wavelength is crucial in fields such as optics, telecommunications, and spectroscopy.

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