A Simple Explanation of Wave Period and Frequency
Understanding Wave Period and Frequency
When studying waves, two important properties to consider are period and frequency. Period is the time it takes for one complete cycle of a wave to pass a given point, while frequency is the number of complete cycles of a wave that occur in one second. These two properties are closely related and can be used to describe various types of waves, including sound waves, light waves, and water waves.
The Relationship Between Period and Frequency
Period and frequency are inversely related: The period of a wave (T) is equal to the inverse of its frequency (f). This relationship is described by the formula T = 1/f. In other words, the higher the frequency of a wave, the shorter its period, and vice versa.
Calculating the Period of a Wave
Given that a wave travels with a frequency of 387 Hz, we can calculate its period using the formula T = 1/f. Plugging in the frequency value:
Period (T) = 1 / 387 Hz = 0.00258 seconds or 2.58 milliseconds
Final Answer:
The period of a wave with a frequency of 387 Hz is approximately 0.00258 seconds or 2.58 milliseconds.
Explanation:
When a wave has a frequency of 387 Hz, its period can be calculated by taking the inverse of the frequency. This concept plays a vital role in understanding wave dynamics and is applied in various fields such as communications, engineering, and the sciences.
A wave travels at a frequency of 387 Hz. What is the period of the wave?Final answer:
The period of a wave with a frequency of 387 Hz is found by taking the inverse of the frequency, which yields approximately 0.00258 seconds or 2.58 milliseconds.
Explanation:
The student has asked what the period of a wave with a frequency of 387 Hz is. The period (T) of a wave and its frequency (f) are inversely related. The relationship between period and frequency is given by the formula T = 1/f. So, to calculate the period of a wave with a frequency of 387 Hz, we divide 1 by the frequency.
T = 1/f = 1/387 Hz
When we do the calculation, we find that the period T is approximately 0.00258 seconds, or 2.58 milliseconds.
This concept is central to understanding wave dynamics and is used in various applications, including communications, engineering, and the sciences.