Theory
Reading the wavelength from a u,x diagram
The wavelength is the distance after which the wave shape repeats itself.
In a u,x diagram, you can read this distance between two consecutive crests or troughs.
Subtract the first position from the next identical position.
- Read two consecutive positionsFind two consecutive crests or troughs in the u,x diagram.
- Calculate the difference in distanceWork out the intermediate step using the values from the problem.
In a u,x diagram, a crest is at x = 0,3 m and the next crest is at x = 1,1 m. Calculate the wavelength.
- Read two consecutive positionsFirst crest = 0,3 m. Next crest = 1,1 m.
- Calculate the difference in distance1,1 - 0,3 = 0,8 m.