The Speed of a Wave

Calculating Speed

• Wave Speed = Frequency x Wavelength

• Speed = Number of Waves per SecondX Distance Between

Waves

Factors that Affect the Speed of a Wave

• Density:–The closer the particles the faster the wave

can travel.

–Waves travel faster through solids than liquids or gases.

• Stiffness of the Material:– In a stiff or rigid material, particles are

packed closer together and transfer of energy occurs more quickly.

• Temperature in a Gas:–As the temperature increases, waves travel

faster.

• Temperature in a Liquid or Solid:–As the temperature decreases, waves

travel faster.

Speed of Waves in Different Materials

Material Wave Speed (m/s)Oxygen 316

Dry Air 331

Ethanol 1,207

Water 1,500

Ice 3,850

Aluminum 6,420