Question

the graphs below describe two waves. the waves are traveling at the same speed. select the graph of the wave with the greater frequency.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the relationship between frequency and wavelength

The formula \(v = f\lambda\) (where \(v\) is speed, \(f\) is frequency, and \(\lambda\) is wavelength) shows that for a constant speed \(v\), \(f=\frac{v}{\lambda}\). So, a smaller wavelength means a higher frequency.

Step2: Compare the wavelengths of the two waves

Count the number of wavelengths in a given position range. In the lower - graph, there are more complete cycles (wavelengths) in the same position range compared to the upper - graph. Since the speed \(v\) is the same for both waves (given in the problem), and \(f=\frac{v}{\lambda}\), the wave with the smaller wavelength (more cycles in the same position range) has a higher frequency.

Answer:

The lower graph has the wave with the greater frequency.