Question

A wave has a speed of 30 m/s, a frequency of 6 Hz, and a wavelength of 5 m. If the wavelength remains constant, and the frequency is doubled, what is the new speed of the wave?

Answer 1

Answer: 60m/s

Explanation:

The wavespeed is the distance covered by the wave in one second. It is measured in metre per second, and represented by the symbol V

Wavespeed (V) = Frequency F x wavelength λ

i.e V = F λ

In the first case:

Wavespeed = 30 m/s

Frequency of sound = 6Hz

Wavelength = 5m

In the second case:

Wavespeed = ?

Frequency of sound = (2x 6Hz = 12Hz)

Wavelength = 5m (remains constant)

Apply V = F λ

Wavespeed = 12 Hz x 5m

Wavespeed = 60m/s

Therefore, when frequency is doubled, the speed is also doubled. Thus, the new speed of the wave is 60m/s