AFOQT Practice Test

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in waves?

1. They are directly proportional

2. They are inversely proportional

3. They are unrelated

4. They are equal

The correct answer is: They are inversely proportional

The correct choice highlights the inverse relationship between frequency and wavelength, which is a fundamental principle in wave physics. Frequency refers to the number of wave cycles that pass a point in a given period of time, while wavelength is the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs of a wave. This relationship is described by the equation: \[ v = f \lambda \] where \(v\) is the speed of the wave, \(f\) is the frequency, and \(\lambda\) is the wavelength. When the speed of the wave remains constant, if the frequency increases, the wavelength must decrease to balance the equation, and vice versa. This means that they are inversely proportional: as one increases, the other decreases. Understanding this relationship is essential in many fields such as acoustics, optics, and electromagnetic theory, among others. Thus, the answer correctly identifies the nature of the link between frequency and wavelength as inversely proportional.