Math Problem Statement

The figure shows the electromagnetic field as a function of position for two electromagnetic waves traveling in a vacuum at a given moment. Which statement about the frequency and speed of the waves is correct?

The frequency of wave A is higher and the speed of wave A is greater than the frequency and speed of wave B. The frequency of wave A is lower than that of wave B, but the speeds of the two waves are the same. The frequency of wave A is greater than that of wave B, but the speeds of the two waves are the same. The frequency of wave A is lower and speed of wave A is less than the frequency and speed of wave B. The frequency and speed of both waves are equal.

The figure shows the electromagnetic field as a function of position for two electromagnetic waves traveling in a vacuum at a given moment. Which statement about the frequency and speed of the waves is correct? 1. The frequency of wave A is higher and the speed of wave A is greater than the frequency and speed of wave B. 2. The frequency of wave A is lower than that of wave B, but the speeds of the two waves are the same. 3. The frequency of wave A is greater than that of wave B, but the speeds of the two waves are the same. 4. The frequency of wave A is lower and speed of wave A is less than the frequency and speed of wave B. 5. The frequency and speed of both waves are equal.

Solution

In the provided figure, two electromagnetic waves are depicted traveling through a vacuum. To determine the correct statement about their frequency and speed, let's analyze the following:

  1. Frequency Comparison: Frequency is related to the wavelength, where a shorter wavelength indicates a higher frequency, and a longer wavelength indicates a lower frequency. From the image, wave EAE_A has a shorter wavelength compared to wave EBE_B. Therefore, wave EAE_A has a higher frequency than wave EBE_B.

  2. Speed of Electromagnetic Waves in a Vacuum: In a vacuum, all electromagnetic waves travel at the same speed, which is the speed of light (c3×108m/sc \approx 3 \times 10^8 \, \text{m/s}). Hence, regardless of their frequency, both waves travel at the same speed.

Correct Answer

Given these observations, the correct statement is:

  • "The frequency of wave A is greater than that of wave B, but the speeds of the two waves are the same."

Let me know if you would like further details on this topic or have additional questions. Here are some follow-up questions to explore:

  1. How is wavelength related to the energy of a wave?
  2. What effect does changing the medium have on the speed of an electromagnetic wave?
  3. Why do all electromagnetic waves travel at the same speed in a vacuum?
  4. How does frequency relate to the energy carried by an electromagnetic wave?
  5. What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in the electromagnetic spectrum?

Tip: Remember that in a vacuum, the speed of all electromagnetic waves is constant regardless of their frequency or wavelength.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Electromagnetic Waves
Frequency
Speed of Light

Formulas

Frequency (f) ∝ 1/Wavelength (λ)
Speed of Light (c) = 3 x 10^8 m/s in vacuum

Theorems

All electromagnetic waves travel at the same speed in a vacuum

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12