Calculating the frequency of a wave

In summary, the formula for calculating the frequency of a wave is f = 1/T, where f is the frequency in hertz (Hz) and T is the period of the wave in seconds (s). The period of a wave can be measured by timing how long it takes for one full wavelength to pass a fixed point. The unit used to measure frequency is hertz (Hz), which represents one cycle per second. Yes, you can calculate the frequency of a wave if you know its wavelength using the formula f = c/λ. The frequency of a wave is directly proportional to its energy, described by the equation E = hf, where E is the energy in joules (J), h is Planck's constant (6
  • #1
tascja
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Homework Statement


A snapshot graph of a traveling wave is shown. The wave is traveling to the right at 44.0 m/s. the maximum displacement is 18.0 cm and the total distance traveled by the wave is 28.0 m
What is the frequency?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


total distance traveled/ # ticks = 28 m/10 = 2.8m/tick

There are 7 ticks in one wavelength

7*2.8 = 19.6 m
 

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  • #2
tascja said:
There are 7 ticks in one wavelength
Do a recount. Once you find the wavelength, how do you calculate the frequency?
 
  • #3
now it works, thanks :)
** 6 ticks to a wavelength, making it 16.8 m

and then frequency = c/lamba
= 44/16.8
= 2.6 Hz
 

FAQ: Calculating the frequency of a wave

What is the formula for calculating the frequency of a wave?

The formula for calculating the frequency of a wave is f = 1/T, where f is the frequency in hertz (Hz) and T is the period of the wave in seconds (s).

How do you measure the period of a wave?

The period of a wave can be measured by timing how long it takes for one full wavelength to pass a fixed point. This time can then be used in the frequency formula to calculate the frequency of the wave.

What unit is used to measure frequency?

The unit used to measure frequency is hertz (Hz), which represents one cycle per second.

Can you calculate the frequency of a wave if you know its wavelength?

Yes, you can calculate the frequency of a wave if you know its wavelength. The formula is f = c/λ, where c is the speed of light (3.00 x 10^8 meters per second) and λ is the wavelength in meters.

How does the frequency of a wave affect its energy?

The frequency of a wave is directly proportional to its energy. This means that as the frequency increases, the energy of the wave also increases. This relationship is described by the equation E = hf, where E is the energy in joules (J), h is Planck's constant (6.63 x 10^-34 joule-seconds), and f is the frequency in hertz (Hz).

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