Wavelength and frequency
2 marks · EasyIn a ripple tank experiment, the frequency of the waves is increased while the speed of the waves remains the same. Explain what happens to the wavelength of the waves.
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Must show: wavelength decreases, explanation using equation
Also accept: As frequency increases, wavelength decreases when speed is constant.
Common mistakes: wavelength increases; no change in wavelength
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · States or explains that wavelength decreases.
B1 · 1 mark · Links this to the wave equation or explains the inverse relationship.
Worked solution
The wavelength decreases. According to the wave speed equation, if speed stays the same and frequency increases, wavelength must decrease so that remains true.