What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?

What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?

• A. Wavelength gets longer as frequency increases
• B. Wavelength is unaffected by frequency
• C. Wavelength gets shorter as frequency increases
• D. Wavelength and frequency are equal

Answer: (C)

The correct understanding of the relationship between wavelength and frequency is rooted in the formula that connects the two: the speed of light (or radio waves) equals the product of frequency and wavelength. This is usually expressed as: \[ c = f \cdot \lambda \] where \( c \) is the speed of light in a vacuum, \( f \) is the frequency, and \( \lambda \) is the wavelength. As frequency increases, the number of cycles per second also increases. Since the speed of light remains constant, if the frequency rises, the wavelength must decrease to keep the product of frequency and wavelength equal to the speed of light. Thus, higher frequency signals correspond to shorter wavelengths. This principle is crucial in understanding how different types of radio signals operate across various bands, as well as their propagation characteristics. In contrast, if frequency were to decrease, the wavelength would increase. This inverse relationship is foundational in the study of wave phenomena, including those encountered in amateur radio.

The correct understanding of the relationship between wavelength and frequency is rooted in the formula that connects the two: the speed of light (or radio waves) equals the product of frequency and wavelength. This is usually expressed as:

[ c = f \cdot \lambda ]

where ( c ) is the speed of light in a vacuum, ( f ) is the frequency, and ( \lambda ) is the wavelength.

As frequency increases, the number of cycles per second also increases. Since the speed of light remains constant, if the frequency rises, the wavelength must decrease to keep the product of frequency and wavelength equal to the speed of light. Thus, higher frequency signals correspond to shorter wavelengths. This principle is crucial in understanding how different types of radio signals operate across various bands, as well as their propagation characteristics.

In contrast, if frequency were to decrease, the wavelength would increase. This inverse relationship is foundational in the study of wave phenomena, including those encountered in amateur radio.