3.3.1.1
The wave equation links speed, frequency and wavelength
Progressive Waves — AQA A-Level Physics
$$v = f\lambda$$
- $v$: wave speedThe distance travelled by a wavefront per unit time. (m \(s^{-1}\))
- $f$: frequencyThe number of complete oscillations passing a point per unit time. Measured in hertz (Hz). (Hz)
- $\lambda$: wavelengthThe minimum distance between two points on a wave that are in phase (e.g. crest to crest). Measured in metres (m). (m)
- This applies to all waves: transverse and longitudinal, electromagnetic and mechanical.
- For a wave of constant speed: as wavelengthThe minimum distance between two points on a wave that are in phase (e.g. crest to crest). Measured in metres (m). increases, frequencyThe number of complete oscillations passing a point per unit time. Measured in hertz (Hz). decreases and vice versa.
- The speed of electromagnetic waves in a vacuum is $c = 3 \times 10^{8}$ m s$^{-1}$.
Examiner Tips and Tricks
- You may see the wave equation written as $c = f \lambda$ where c is the wave speedThe distance travelled by a wavefront per unit time..
- However, c is often reserved for the speed of light (\(3 \times 10^{8}\) m \(s^{-1}\)).
- Only electromagnetic waves travel at this speed, so use v for any speed that is not the speed of light.