Circular Waves: The Relationship between Frequency and Wavelength

The relationship between frequency and wavelength of circular waves in a ripple tank is examined.

Discussion

A point source in a ripple tank generates circular traveling waves, much like those formed when a pebble is dropped into a pool of still water. As the wave frequency is increased, the wavelength decreases. This effect can be most clearly seen by stopping the movie at several different frequencies. It is important to recognize that traveling waves can be of any frequency.