Wave velocity
from class:
College Physics I – Introduction
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.
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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Wave velocity ($v$) can be expressed as $v = f \cdot \lambda$, where $f$ is frequency and $\lambda$ is wavelength.
- In a given medium, wave velocity remains constant for a specific type of wave.
- The speed of sound in air at room temperature is approximately 343 m/s.
- Wave velocity can differ based on the medium; for example, light travels faster in a vacuum than in any other medium.
- For transverse waves on a string, wave velocity depends on the tension and linear density of the string.
Review Questions
- What is the formula to calculate wave velocity?
- How does changing the medium affect wave velocity?
- Explain why light travels faster in a vacuum compared to other media.
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