If the frequency of a sound wave is doubled while traveling in the same medium, how is the wavelength affected?

Study for the SPI exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your sonography certification!

Multiple Choice

If the frequency of a sound wave is doubled while traveling in the same medium, how is the wavelength affected?

Explanation:
In a uniform medium the speed of sound is constant, and the relationship v = fλ ties frequency and wavelength together. If the frequency doubles while the speed stays the same, the wavelength must become half as long: λ' = v/(2f) = (1/2)(v/f) = λ/2. So the wavelength is halved. For example, with v = 340 m/s and an original frequency of 1000 Hz, λ is 0.34 m; doubling the frequency to 2000 Hz gives λ = 0.17 m. The other options would require the speed to change, which isn’t happening in a fixed medium.

In a uniform medium the speed of sound is constant, and the relationship v = fλ ties frequency and wavelength together. If the frequency doubles while the speed stays the same, the wavelength must become half as long: λ' = v/(2f) = (1/2)(v/f) = λ/2. So the wavelength is halved. For example, with v = 340 m/s and an original frequency of 1000 Hz, λ is 0.34 m; doubling the frequency to 2000 Hz gives λ = 0.17 m. The other options would require the speed to change, which isn’t happening in a fixed medium.

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