Wave Speed Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the wave speed calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Wave Speed
wave_speed = frequency * wavelengthVariables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
frequency | Frequency(Hz) | 440 |
wavelength | Wavelength(m) | 0.78 |
How It Works
Wave Speed
Wave speed links the spatial and temporal characteristics of any periodic wave.
Formula
v = f * lambda
where *f* is the number of oscillations per second and *lambda* is the distance between successive crests. This relationship holds for sound waves, light, water waves, and all other periodic disturbances.
Worked Example
A sound wave with frequency 440 Hz and wavelength 0.78 m.
frequency = 440wavelength = 0.78
- 01v = f * lambda
- 02v = 440 * 0.78
- 03v = 343.2 m/s
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Wave Speed Calculator