Grade 11 Physics: WAVES. Finding Wavelength & Frequency

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating wavelength and frequency in the context of sound waves, specifically using the speed of sound in air at 343 m/s and the frequencies of musical notes. For the first question, the wavelength for middle C (256 Hz) is calculated using the formula wavelength = speed of sound / frequency, resulting in a wavelength of 1.34 meters. For high C (512 Hz), the wavelength is 0.671 meters. In the second question, the frequency of a child swinging 12 times in 30 seconds is confirmed as 0.4 Hz, with the period calculated as 2.5 seconds using the formula period = 1/frequency.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave properties, specifically frequency and wavelength.
  • Familiarity with the formula for wave speed: speed = frequency × wavelength.
  • Basic knowledge of sound wave behavior in air.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving ratios and conversions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between frequency and wavelength in different mediums.
  • Learn how to calculate wave speed in various conditions, including temperature effects.
  • Explore the concept of wave period and its relation to frequency.
  • Investigate the physics of sound waves and their applications in musical acoustics.
USEFUL FOR

Students in Grade 11 physics, educators teaching wave mechanics, and anyone interested in the principles of sound waves and their calculations.

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I missed the day where we were taught the formulas for frequency & wavelength, so doing the questions below are a struggle. Please someone explain how .


Question 1 (wavelength) : The speed of sound in air at room temperature is 343m/s. The sound wave produced by striking middle C on a piano has a frequency of 256 Hz.
A) Calculate the wavelength of this sound
B) Calculate the wavelength for the sound produced by high C, one octave higher than middle C, with a frequency of 512 Hz.
^ This one I had no idea how to even start. :$

Question 2 (frequency) : A child swings back and forth on a swing 12 times in 30.0 seconds. Determine the frequency and period of the swinging.
^ This one I did the answer as f/t = 12/30 = .4 so is 0.4 Hz correct?
 
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Question one: you know that velocity of the wave=frequency*Wavelength...that should help you get the wavelength I think.
Question two: I think you did that right..dont forget you also need to calculate the period for that. Remember period=1/frequency
 

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