Student Wavelength Frequency

Darius increase increase
Kathryn increase remain the same
Anya decrease increase
Franco remain the same decrease
Four students write their ideas about the relationship between wavelength and frequency. Which student is correct?

(1 point)
Responses

Kathryn
Kathryn

Franco
Franco

Darius
Darius

Anya

1 answer

The relationship between wavelength and frequency is described by the formula:

\[ c = \lambda \cdot f \]

where \( c \) is the speed of light, \( \lambda \) is the wavelength, and \( f \) is the frequency. According to this relationship:

  • If the wavelength increases, the frequency must decrease (because the speed of light is constant).
  • If the wavelength decreases, the frequency must increase.
  • If the wavelength remains the same, the frequency remains the same.

Now let's evaluate each student's statement:

  • Darius (increase, increase): Incorrect. If the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases.
  • Kathryn (increase, remain the same): Incorrect. If the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases.
  • Anya (decrease, increase): Correct. If the wavelength decreases, the frequency increases.
  • Franco (remain the same, decrease): Incorrect. If the wavelength remains the same, frequency must remain the same as well.

Therefore, the correct answer is Anya.