Derivation of v = f λ
- Using the definitions of speed, frequency and wavelength, the wave equation v = fλ can be derived
- This is an important relationship between three key properties of a wave
- The derivation for this is shown below
Derivation of v = fλ
Examiner Tip
You will be expected to remember all the steps for this derivation (but do not need to write the full definition for each variable). If you are unsure as to where speed = distance/time comes from, make sure to revisit chapter “2. Kinematics”.
