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Edexcel IGCSE Physics · Spec 3.6-3.7

Wave Speed: Using the Equation

Worked examples using the wave speed equation.

Physics revision video

Wave Speed: Using the Equation

Spec 3.6-3.7

What you need to know

  • Use wave speed equals frequency times wavelength
  • Rearrange it to find frequency or wavelength
  • Use period equals one over frequency

Active recall

Quick check

Answer each question before opening the answer.

What is the wave speed equation?

Wave speed = frequency × wavelength (v = f × λ).

A wave has frequency 50 Hz and wavelength 2 m. What is its speed?

v = f × λ = 50 × 2 = 100 m/s.

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