Speed of Water Wave: Frequency & Wavelength

In summary, when the depth of water increases and the speed of a wave also increases, the frequency of the wave remains the same while the wavelength increases. This can be seen when observing ripples moving from deep to shallow water. Additionally, it can be verified that the frequency remains relatively unchanged with some effort.
  • #1
Frasch
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If the depth of water increases, and it's speed of a wave in that water also increases as a result, what happens to the frequency and wavelength of that wave? Would the frequency remain the same and the wavelength increase?
 
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  • #2
Would the frequency remain the same and the wavelength increase?
Yes.

... here the ripples are moving from deep to shallow water for the opposite effect.
(On reflection this is a poor example - I'll look for a better one.)
You can clearly see that the wavelength changes - a bit more effort should verify that the frequency is pretty-much unchanged.


... this guy is boring and a bit lax so just skip forward to 3:54
 
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Related to Speed of Water Wave: Frequency & Wavelength

1. What is the speed of a water wave?

The speed of a water wave can vary, but in general, the speed of a water wave is determined by the wavelength and frequency of the wave. It is also affected by factors such as the depth and temperature of the water.

2. How is the speed of a water wave calculated?

The speed of a water wave can be calculated by multiplying the wavelength (in meters) by the frequency (in hertz). This formula is often written as v = λf, where v is the speed, λ is the wavelength, and f is the frequency.

3. What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency of a water wave?

The wavelength and frequency of a water wave have an inverse relationship. This means that as the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is important in understanding the behavior of water waves.

4. How does the depth of water affect the speed of a water wave?

The depth of water can affect the speed of a water wave because it changes the wave's wavelength. In shallow water, the wavelength is shorter, resulting in a slower wave speed. In deeper water, the wavelength is longer, resulting in a faster wave speed.

5. What is the difference between wave speed and wave velocity?

Wave speed and wave velocity are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings. Wave speed refers to the distance a wave travels in a given amount of time, while wave velocity refers to the speed of the wave in a specific direction.

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