Question

question 5 of 12
an observer sits in a boat watching wave fronts move past the boat. the distance between successive wave crests is 0.50 m, and they are moving at 2.6 m/s.
what is the wavelength of these waves?
0.50 m
1.0 m
2.6 m
what is the frequency of these waves?
0.19 hz
5.2 hz
0.50 hz

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the definition of wavelength

The wavelength ($\lambda$) of a wave is the distance between successive wave crests. Given that the distance between successive wave crests is $0.50$ m.

Step2: Use the wave - speed formula $v = f\lambda$ to find the frequency

We know that $v = 2.6$ m/s and $\lambda=0.50$ m. Rearranging the formula $v = f\lambda$ for frequency $f$, we get $f=\frac{v}{\lambda}$.
Substitute $v = 2.6$ m/s and $\lambda = 0.50$ m into the formula: $f=\frac{2.6}{0.50}=5.2$ Hz.

Answer:

For the wavelength question: $0.50$ m.
For the frequency question: $5.2$ Hz.