Question

which wave in the diagram has the greatest wavelength? options: 2, 4, 3, 1 (with a diagram of four waves numbered 1 - 4)

Explanation:

Step1: Recall wavelength definition

Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive peaks (or troughs) of a wave. Fewer cycles in the same length mean a longer wavelength.

Step2: Analyze each wave

• Wave 1: Many small cycles.
• Wave 2: More cycles than Wave 3.
• Wave 3: Fewer cycles (broader waves) than 1,2,4.
• Wave 4: Most cycles (shortest wavelength).

So Wave 3 has the greatest wavelength as it has the fewest number of cycles (widest peaks/troughs) over the same horizontal length.

Answer:

3 (the wave labeled 3 in the diagram)