What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

[coey]

heya,

i'm trying to solve this problem for a prelab question of mine, i think the problem that I've been noticing is that i can't find the right formula which involves all the variables listed... anyway here's the question.

A longitudinal wave with a frequency of 6 Hz takes 1.0 s to travel the length of a 2.5-m Slinky (see Figure). Determine the wavelength of the wave in meters.
m

thanks for your help

 

[QuantumMech]

I think just use dimensional analysis.

The wave travels 2.5 m in 1.0 s so its velocity is 2.5 m/s. Divide this by 6 Hz (s^-1) and get 0.4167 m.

Formula might be \lambda \nu = v .

 

[Ouabache]

Do you know the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

hint: -----> http://hubblesite.org/reference_desk/faq/answer.php.id=72&cat=light

it may not be clear but their equation actually reads: \lambda\nu = v the \nu is the greek letter nu.

Once you know the relationship, you have all the elements to find the wavelength..

edit: looks like QM already posted a solution. I was trying to help you figure it out yourself.