In a periodic wave, the distance between a crest and the next consecutive trough is 15 cm. What is the wavelength of the wave?
Correct answer: D. 30 cm
- A. 10 cm
- B. 5 cm
- C. 7.5 cm
- D. 30 cm
Explanation
The wavelength (λ) of a periodic wave is the distance between two consecutive crests or two consecutive troughs of the wave. In this case, the distance between a crest and the next consecutive trough is given as 15 cm. This distance is equal to half of the wavelength since it is the distance between two points that are out of phase by half a cycle. Therefore, we can write: 15 cm = λ/2 Solving for the wavelength (λ), we get: λ = 15 cm x 2 = 30 cm Therefore, the wavelength of the wave is 30 cm.
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Progressive waves transfer energy through oscillations, with wavelength, frequency, amplitude and wave speed related by v = fλ; sound speed depends on the medium. Superposition produces interference and stationary waves in strings and organ pipes, while simple harmonic motion describes the oscillation itself and must be distinguished from wave propagation.
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