Question

which describes the relationship between the frequency, wavelength, and speed of a wave as the wave travels through different media?
as speed changes, wavelength changes and frequency remains constant.
as speed changes, frequency changes and wavelength remains constant.
as speed changes, wavelength and frequency change.
as speed changes, wavelength and frequency remain constant.

Explanation:

The frequency of a wave is determined by its source and remains constant when the wave travels through different media. The speed of a wave \(v\) is related to its wavelength \(\lambda\) and frequency \(f\) by the formula \(v = f\lambda\). When the wave moves to a different medium, its speed \(v\) changes. Since \(f\) is constant (source - determined), from \(v = f\lambda\), if \(v\) changes and \(f\) is fixed, then \(\lambda\) (wavelength) must change. For example, when light (an electromagnetic wave) moves from air to water, its speed decreases, and its wavelength decreases while its frequency (determined by the light - emitting source) remains the same.

Answer:

As speed changes, wavelength changes and frequency remains constant.