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Wave Speed Formula:
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Wave speed is the distance traveled by a wave per unit time. For sound waves, it represents how fast the sound wave propagates through a medium. The speed of sound varies depending on the medium (air, water, solids) and environmental conditions.
The calculator uses the wave speed formula:
Where:
Explanation: The speed of a wave equals the product of its frequency and wavelength. This fundamental relationship applies to all types of waves, including sound waves.
Details: Calculating wave speed is essential in various fields including acoustics, telecommunications, and medical imaging. For sound waves specifically, it helps in understanding sound propagation, designing audio systems, and studying the properties of different materials.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hertz (Hz) and wavelength in meters (m). Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the typical speed of sound in air?
A: At 20°C, the speed of sound in dry air is approximately 343 m/s. This varies with temperature, humidity, and air pressure.
Q2: How does temperature affect sound speed?
A: Sound travels faster in warmer air. The speed increases by about 0.6 m/s for each degree Celsius increase in temperature.
Q3: In which medium does sound travel fastest?
A: Sound travels fastest in solids, then liquids, and slowest in gases. For example, sound travels about 4 times faster in water and 15 times faster in steel than in air.
Q4: Can this formula be used for light waves?
A: Yes, the same formula applies to electromagnetic waves including light, where v = c (speed of light) = 3×10⁸ m/s in vacuum.
Q5: What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional when wave speed is constant. Higher frequency means shorter wavelength, and vice versa.