Wave frequency

The frequency of a wave is the number of complete waves that pass a given point in one second.

Notation

We usually use the letter f to represent frequency. Nice and simple :)

Frequency is measured in hertz (Hz).

One hertz is equal to one wave passing a point per second.

Frequency can be calculated using the re-arranged formula for wavelength and wave speed:

\text{Frequency} = \frac{\text{speed of wave}}{\text{wavelength}}

Or, using symbols:

f = \frac{v}{\lambda}

Where:

It is inversely proportional to the wavelength of the wave - that is, as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.

This assumes that the speed of the wave remains constant.

Question	Answer
What is the frequency of a wave?	The number of complete waves that pass a given point in one second.
What letter is used to represent frequency?	f
What unit is frequency measured in?	Hertz (Hz)
What is one hertz equal to?	One wave passing a point per second.
Write the formula for calculating frequency.	\text{Frequency} = \frac{\text{speed of wave}}{\text{wavelength}} or f = \frac{v}{\lambda}
In the formula f = \frac{v}{\lambda}, what does f represent?	Frequency (in hertz, Hz)
In the formula f = \frac{v}{\lambda}, what does v represent?	The speed of the wave (in metres per second, m/s)
In the formula f = \frac{v}{\lambda}, what does \lambda represent?	The wavelength of the wave (in metres, m)
What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?	They are inversely proportional; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.
Under what assumption does the inverse relationship between frequency and wavelength hold?	That the speed of the wave remains constant.