Question

what happens to an ultrasound wave that moves from muscle to bone?
(1 point)

the wavelength of the wave decreases

the frequency of the wave increases

the wavelength of the wave increases

the frequency of the wave decreases

Explanation:

1. Recall the properties of wave propagation: The frequency of a wave is determined by its source, so when an ultrasound wave moves from one medium (muscle) to another (bone), the frequency remains constant.
2. Recall the wave speed formula: The speed of a wave \( v \) is related to its frequency \( f \) and wavelength \( \lambda \) by the formula \( v = f\lambda \).
3. Compare the speed of ultrasound in muscle and bone: The speed of ultrasound in bone is greater than in muscle (since bone is a denser and stiffer medium for ultrasound propagation).
4. Analyze the effect on wavelength: Since \( f \) is constant and \( v \) increases (from muscle to bone), rearranging \( v = f\lambda \) to \( \lambda=\frac{v}{f} \), an increase in \( v \) (with \( f \) constant) leads to an increase in \( \lambda \) (wavelength).

So the wavelength of the ultrasound wave increases when moving from muscle to bone.

Answer:

The wavelength of the wave increases