Wavelengths in a ripple tank experiment

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a ripple tank experiment where students analyze the behavior of water waves as they transition from deeper to shallower water. The initial conditions include a wave speed of 4.0 cm/s and a wavelength of 0.5 cm, with a subsequent decrease in speed to 3.0 cm/s in shallower water.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between wave speed and wavelength, questioning how these properties change with water depth. They also consider the independence of certain wave properties from the water depth.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing insights about the relationship between wave speed, frequency, and wavelength. Some guidance has been provided regarding the relevant formula, but there is no explicit consensus on the new wavelength or the implications of the changes in wave speed.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the relationship between wave properties and the effects of changing water depth, with some uncertainty about the underlying principles. The original poster's request for a formula indicates a need for clarification on the concepts involved.

Brittykitty
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In a ripple tank experiment, students generate water waves at a speed of 4.0 cm/s and a wavelength of 0.5 cm. If the waves are refracted into shallower water where their speed decreases to 3.0 cm/s, what is their new wavelength?

What would the formula be for this question?
 
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Consider these questions:
1. How is wavelength related to speed?
2. Is there any property of the waves that is independent of the water depth?
 


Im still not quite sure :\
 


Have you seen before the relation v = f \lambda
where v = speed of the wave, f = frequency of the wave, and \lambda = wavelength of the wave?

If not, you probably have to review your waves notes.

The next piece of information that you have to use is the fact that the frequency of the wave depends only on its source.
 

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