So, in a way, they are inverse of each other.

In summary, the relationship between wavelength and period is inverse, meaning that as the wavelength increases, the period decreases and vice versa. Wavelength can be calculated by dividing the speed of the wave by its frequency, with the unit of measurement being meters (m) or its multiples. The wavelength of a wave can change due to different factors such as entering a medium with a different density or encountering an obstacle. The period and frequency of a wave are directly proportional, with the formula for frequency being 1/period.
  • #1
viet_jon
131
0

Homework Statement




my question is simple and doesn't really fit the template.


Is wavelength and period of a wave not the same thing?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Wavelength is a physical measure of length, whereas period is a measurement of time.
 
  • #3
Defennder is correct, they are different.

They might appear to be the same in drawings of waves, but:

When illustrating the wavelength, the x-axis in the figure would be position or distance (at a fixed time).

When illustrating period, the x-axis would be time (at a fixed position).
 

Related to So, in a way, they are inverse of each other.

1. What is the relationship between wavelength and period?

The wavelength and period of a wave are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as the wavelength increases, the period decreases, and vice versa.

2. How do you calculate wavelength?

Wavelength can be calculated by dividing the speed of the wave by its frequency. The formula is: wavelength = speed / frequency.

3. What is the unit of measurement for wavelength?

The unit of measurement for wavelength is meters (m) or any of its multiples, such as centimeters (cm) or millimeters (mm).

4. Can the wavelength of a wave change?

Yes, the wavelength of a wave can change when it enters a medium with a different density or when it encounters an obstacle. It can also be affected by the source of the wave.

5. How does the period of a wave affect its frequency?

The period and frequency of a wave are directly proportional to each other. This means that as the period increases, the frequency decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the formula: frequency = 1 / period.

Similar threads

Sonometers, tuning forks, and wave periodicity
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
Amplitude relation with periodic time
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
I'm not sure which units I should convert this to
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
994
I'm getting two possible uncertainties for frequency
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
Spring set makes up a traveling wave
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
3K
Help with periods and oscilation *and* wavelengths
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
What is the difference between diffraction and scattering?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
Pulse Duration (PD), Pulse Repetition Period (PRP) and Duty Factor (DF)
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Frequency and wavelength of a wave on a vertical rope
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
Number of amplitudes in one wave cycle
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
13K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top