What happens to the wavelength of a wave if the frequency is increased while keeping the speed constant?

When the frequency of a wave is increased while the speed of the wave remains constant, the wavelength decreases. This relationship can be understood through the wave equation, which states that the speed of a wave (v) is equal to the frequency (f) multiplied by the wavelength (λ): v = f * λ.

If the speed (v) is constant and the frequency (f) increases, the wavelength (λ) must decrease in order to maintain the equality of the equation. This is because, if you consider an increase in frequency meaning more cycles occur in a given time frame, each cycle must take up less distance—thus leading to a shorter wavelength.

Understanding this relationship is crucial in many scientific applications, such as in telecommunications, where signal frequency and wavelength play significant roles in transmission capacity and range.