What happens to wavelength in a ripple tank when frequency is doubled?

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In summary, wavelength and frequency have an inverse relationship and are measured in meters and hertz respectively. The wavelength of light affects its properties, such as color and energy. The electromagnetic spectrum includes all possible wavelengths and frequencies of electromagnetic radiation. Wavelength and frequency can be changed by altering the medium through which the wave travels.
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labview1958
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If the frequency of a water wave is doubled in a ripple tank, is the wavelength halved? The depth of water is kept constant.
 
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Yes. In shallow water, the speed of the water waves is dependent only on the depth (and the gravitational acceleration g).

The general expression for the speed of a water wave is given by:
[tex]v = \sqrt{\frac{g\lambda}{2\pi}\,tanh(2\pi\frac{d}{\lambda}})[/tex]

which simplifies in the shallow depth limit into
[tex]v = \sqrt{gd}[/tex]
 
  • #3
so,
v=freq x wavelength

Thus double the frequency the wavelength is halved in shallow water.
 

FAQ: What happens to wavelength in a ripple tank when frequency is doubled?

1. What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?

Wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as one increases, the other decreases. The mathematical relationship between the two is given by the formula: wavelength = speed of light / frequency.

2. Why is wavelength measured in meters and frequency measured in hertz?

Wavelength is a measure of distance, which is why it is measured in meters. Frequency, on the other hand, is a measure of the number of cycles or vibrations per second, which is why it is measured in hertz (Hz).

3. How does the wavelength of light affect its properties?

The wavelength of light determines its color, energy, and behavior. Longer wavelengths, such as radio waves, have lower energy and are not visible to the human eye. Shorter wavelengths, such as gamma rays, have higher energy and can be harmful to living organisms.

4. How is the electromagnetic spectrum related to wavelength and frequency?

The electromagnetic spectrum is a range of all possible wavelengths and frequencies of electromagnetic radiation. This includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Each type of radiation has a specific range of wavelengths and frequencies.

5. Can wavelength and frequency be changed?

Yes, wavelength and frequency can be changed by altering the medium through which the wave travels. For example, the wavelength of light can be changed by passing it through a prism, and the frequency of sound waves can be changed by changing the density of the medium through which it travels.

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