Wavelengths in a ripple tank experiment

In summary, When waves are refracted into shallower water, their speed decreases and the new wavelength can be found using the formula v = f \lambda, where v is the speed of the wave and f is its frequency. The frequency of the wave is independent of the water depth and only depends on its source.
  • #1
Brittykitty
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In a ripple tank experiment, students generate water waves at a speed of 4.0 cm/s and a wavelength of 0.5 cm. If the waves are refracted into shallower water where their speed decreases to 3.0 cm/s, what is their new wavelength?

What would the formula be for this question?
 
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  • #2


Consider these questions:
1. How is wavelength related to speed?
2. Is there any property of the waves that is independent of the water depth?
 
  • #3


Im still not quite sure :\
 
  • #4


Have you seen before the relation [tex]v = f \lambda[/tex]
where v = speed of the wave, f = frequency of the wave, and [tex]\lambda[/tex] = wavelength of the wave?

If not, you probably have to review your waves notes.

The next piece of information that you have to use is the fact that the frequency of the wave depends only on its source.
 

Related to Wavelengths in a ripple tank experiment

1. What is a ripple tank experiment?

A ripple tank experiment is a scientific experiment that involves creating and observing waves in a shallow tank of water. This experiment is used to study the behavior and properties of waves, such as wavelength, frequency, and speed.

2. What is the purpose of a ripple tank experiment?

The purpose of a ripple tank experiment is to demonstrate the properties and behavior of waves in a visual and tangible way. This experiment can help us understand how waves are created, how they travel, and how they interact with each other and with different obstacles.

3. How do you measure the wavelength in a ripple tank experiment?

The wavelength in a ripple tank experiment can be measured by counting the number of wave crests or troughs that pass a certain point in a given amount of time. The distance between each crest or trough is equal to the wavelength.

4. What factors affect the wavelength in a ripple tank experiment?

The wavelength in a ripple tank experiment can be affected by the frequency of the wave, the depth of the water, and the speed of the wave. These factors can change the distance between wave crests and therefore alter the wavelength.

5. How does the wavelength affect the speed of a wave in a ripple tank experiment?

The wavelength and the speed of a wave in a ripple tank experiment are directly proportional. This means that as the wavelength increases, the speed of the wave also increases. This relationship can be mathematically expressed as speed = wavelength x frequency.

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