How can the wave speed of a particle be calculated?

The wave speed of a particle can be calculated using the equation v = fλ.

To calculate the wave speed of a particle, you need to know the frequency of the wave and its wavelength. The frequency is the number of waves that pass a point in one second and is measured in Hertz (Hz). The wavelength is the distance between two consecutive points on a wave that are in phase and is measured in metres (m).

The equation to calculate wave speed is v = fλ, where v is the wave speed, f is the frequency and λ is the wavelength. This equation is derived from the wave equation, v = d/t, where v is the velocity, d is the distance travelled and t is the time taken.

It is important to note that the wave speed is independent of the amplitude of the wave. This means that the wave speed will remain constant even if the amplitude changes.

A-Level Physics Tutor Summary: To find a particle's wave speed, use the formula v = fλ, where 'v' is wave speed, 'f' is frequency (how many waves pass a point per second), and 'λ' is wavelength (distance between two matching points on waves). This calculation doesn't change with wave height (amplitude). Essentially, knowing the wave's frequency and wavelength lets you calculate its speed.