Wave velocity

Definition

Wave velocity is the speed at which a wave propagates through a medium. It is calculated as the product of the wave's frequency and wavelength.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wave velocity ($v$) can be expressed as $v = f \cdot \lambda$, where $f$ is frequency and $\lambda$ is wavelength.
2. In a given medium, wave velocity remains constant for a specific type of wave.
3. The speed of sound in air at room temperature is approximately 343 m/s.
4. Wave velocity can differ based on the medium; for example, light travels faster in a vacuum than in any other medium.
5. For transverse waves on a string, wave velocity depends on the tension and linear density of the string.

Review Questions

Related terms

Frequency:

The number of oscillations or cycles per unit time, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Wavelength:

The distance between consecutive points of identical phase in a wave, such as crest to crest or trough to trough.

Amplitude:

The maximum displacement of points on a wave, which reflects the energy carried by the wave.