The distance between compressions of a longitudinal wave is a measure of its _____.
A.)speed
B.)wavelength***
C.)amplitude
D.)frequency
agree
To determine the correct answer, let's analyze the options one by one:
A) Speed: The speed of a wave refers to how quickly the wave propagates or moves through a medium. It is usually represented by the symbol "v" and is determined by the medium through which the wave is traveling. The distance between compressions of a longitudinal wave does not directly measure its speed.
B) Wavelength: The wavelength of a wave is the distance between two consecutive points in the wave that are in the same phase. In the case of a longitudinal wave, such as a sound wave, the compressions represent the points of maximum density or pressure. Therefore, the distance between compressions is actually a measure of the wavelength of the wave. This makes option B, wavelength, the correct answer.
C) Amplitude: The amplitude of a wave refers to the maximum displacement or height of the wave from its resting or equilibrium position. It is related to the energy carried by the wave, but it does not directly measure the distance between compressions.
D) Frequency: The frequency of a wave is the number of complete cycles or oscillations it completes in a given time period. It is usually represented by the symbol "f" and is expressed in hertz (Hz). The distance between compressions of a longitudinal wave is not directly related to its frequency.
In conclusion, the correct answer is B) wavelength, as the distance between compressions is a measure of the wavelength of a longitudinal wave.