Question

complete each statement for an electromagnetic wave in space: a. if the wavelength increases, frequency b. if frequency increases, wavelength c. if wavelength increases, speed d. if wavelength decreases, speed

Explanation:

To solve this, we use the relationship for electromagnetic waves in space: \( c = \lambda f \), where \( c \) is the speed of light (constant in space), \( \lambda \) is wavelength, and \( f \) is frequency.

Part a:

Step1: Recall \( c = \lambda f \) (constant \( c \)).

If \( \lambda \) (wavelength) increases, since \( c \) is constant, \( f \) (frequency) must decrease (inverse relationship).

Part b:

Step1: Use \( c = \lambda f \) (constant \( c \)).

If \( f \) (frequency) increases, \( \lambda \) (wavelength) must decrease (inverse relationship).

Part c:

Step1: Remember \( c \) (speed of light in space) is constant.

Changing \( \lambda \) (wavelength) does not affect \( c \), so speed stays the same.

Part d:

Step1: Recall \( c \) (speed of light in space) is constant.

Changing \( \lambda \) (wavelength) does not affect \( c \), so speed stays the same.

Answer:

s:
a. decreases
b. decreases
c. stays the same
d. stays the same