Wave Speed

Mr. Andersen explains wave speed in AP Physics Essentials video 107. He discusses how wave speed is calculated using wavelength and period, and how it varies with the medium. Through simulations, he demonstrates the effect of tension on wave speed. Practical examples and problems are provided to reinforce the concepts, including the relationship between wavelength and frequency. The video concludes with a challenge to calculate wave speed using given data.

What is the primary reason light reaches you faster than sound during a thunderstorm?

• Sound waves are blocked by clouds.

• Sound waves are absorbed by the atmosphere.

• Light waves travel faster than sound waves.

• Light travels in a straight line.

How is wave speed calculated using wavelength and period?

• By adding wavelength and period.

• By dividing wavelength by period.

• By multiplying wavelength and period.

• By subtracting period from wavelength.

What happens to wave speed when the tension in the medium is increased?

• Wave speed remains the same.

• Wave speed decreases.

• Wave speed becomes zero.

• Wave speed increases.

In the simulation, what was the calculated wave speed when the wave moved 0.60 meters in 1.6 seconds?

• 0.96 meters per second

• 1.6 meters per second

• 0.60 meters per second

• 0.038 meters per second

What is the effect on wavelength when frequency is increased, assuming the medium remains constant?

• Wavelength becomes zero.

• Wavelength increases.

• Wavelength decreases.

• Wavelength remains constant.

If the velocity of a wave is 2.8 meters per second and the wavelength is 23 meters, what is the frequency?

• 2.8 hertz

• 12 hertz

• 1.2 hertz

• 0.12 hertz

What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency when the medium is unchanged?

• They are inversely proportional.

• They are directly proportional.

• They are equal.

• They are unrelated.