Graph of the Frequency(Wavelength) Relationship

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between frequency and wavelength, specifically questioning the nature of their graphical representation. The original poster expresses confusion regarding why this relationship is perceived as inversely exponential rather than inversely linear.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definitions of inversely exponential and inversely linear relationships, with some attempting to clarify the mathematical expressions involved. Questions arise about the nature of the functions and their graphical implications.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the mathematical formulation of the frequency-wavelength relationship. There is an ongoing exploration of definitions and interpretations, but no consensus has been reached regarding the characterization of the relationship.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference the need to avoid calculus in the explanations, indicating a constraint in the level of mathematical detail that can be discussed.

tenbee
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Homework Statement



A practice problem showed the relationship between frequency and wavelength to be inversely exponential. I don't understand why is the graphical relationship is not [instead] inversely linear. What concept am I missing? (No calculus please... I'd be clueless :biggrin:).

Homework Equations



v = ƒ\lambda

The Attempt at a Solution



Reading my textbook to no avail.
 
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What do you mean by inversely linear? If you express frequency in terms of wavelength, for example, you get an inverse exponential function (i.e. variable is in the denominator).

f=\frac{v}{\lambda}
 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exponential_function"

how is it exponential function then?

OP is right.
it is inversely proportional function (or inversely linear)
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Exponential functions could also be referring to functions of the from

y=\large\frac{1}{x^{n}}
 

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