Speed of Ocean Waves: 900m/min?

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SUMMARY

The speed of ocean waves with a wavelength of 120 meters and a frequency of 8 waves per minute is calculated to be 900 meters per minute. However, the calculation is incorrect due to a misunderstanding of the relationship between frequency and period. The correct frequency should be derived directly from the rate of waves, leading to a reevaluation of the speed calculation. The correct approach involves using the formula v = f × λ, where f is the frequency in Hz.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave properties, including wavelength and frequency
  • Familiarity with the relationship between period and frequency
  • Basic knowledge of speed calculation in wave mechanics
  • Ability to manipulate and apply formulas in physics
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  • Review the concepts of wave frequency and period in physics
  • Learn how to correctly calculate wave speed using v = f × λ
  • Explore examples of wave calculations in different mediums
  • Study the effects of wavelength on wave speed in various environments
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Students studying physics, educators teaching wave mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of ocean waves.

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Homework Statement


Ocean waves with a wavelength of 120 m are coming in at a rate of 8 per minute. What is their speed?

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\lambda = 120[/tex]

They are coming in at a rate of 8 per minute, that is 8 in 60 seconds. So the period is

[tex]T=\frac{8}{60}=0.13[/tex]

Now we find frequency

[tex]f=\frac{1}{T}=\frac{1}{0.13}=7.5[/tex]

[tex]v=f \lambda = 120 \times 7.5=900[/tex]

But this is wrong. It is far larger than the actual answer! What did I do wrong?
 
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8 per minute would be the frequency, not the periodic time I believe.
 

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