To determine which student is correct, we need to understand the relationship between wavelength and frequency. The general principle that governs this relationship is given by the equation:
\[ c = \lambda \times f \]
where:
- \( c \) is the speed of light (a constant),
- \( \lambda \) is the wavelength,
- \( f \) is the frequency.
From this equation, we can deduce that:
- If the wavelength (\( \lambda \)) increases, the frequency (\( f \)) must decrease to keep the equation balanced, since 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, we can analyze each student's statement:
- Darius: "increase" wavelength, "increase" frequency - Incorrect (wavelength increase means frequency decreases)
- Kathryn: "increase" wavelength, "remain the same" frequency - Incorrect (wavelength increase means frequency decreases)
- Anya: "decrease" wavelength, "increase" frequency - Correct (decrease in wavelength means increase in frequency)
- Franco: "remain the same" wavelength, "decrease" frequency - Incorrect (if wavelength remains the same, frequency should remain the same)
Therefore, the correct student is Anya.
3 answers